Clinical Trials Research Nurse: Role and Pathway

Every new treatment used today was once tested in a clinical trial, and research nurses are at the heart of them. They protect participants’ safety while making sure the science is done properly.

Imagine explaining a cancer drug trial to a patient who’s run out of standard options. You go through the information carefully, answer every question and make sure they really understand before they sign. Over the next year you see them at every visit, and the data you collect helps get that drug approved for others.

What research nurses do

• Screen and recruit patients for studies
• Support informed consent conversations
• Carry out study procedures: samples, observations, ECGs, questionnaires
• Monitor and report side effects and adverse events
• Keep accurate study records
• Act as a link between participants, doctors and sponsors

Skills that matter

Meticulous attention to detail, strong ethics and advocacy, clear explanations of complex information, organisation, and comfort with protocols and regulations such as Good Clinical Practice (GCP).

How to get into research nursing

1. Gain clinical experience, ideally in the specialty you want to research (oncology, cardiology, critical care and more).
2. Complete free Good Clinical Practice (GCP) training online.
3. Get involved in any studies on your unit.
4. Apply for research nurse or clinical research practitioner posts at hospitals, universities or research organisations.
5. Consider postgraduate study or certification in clinical research for progression.

But will I still do patient care?

Yes. Research nurses spend lots of time with patients, often building long relationships across many study visits. Hours are often more regular than ward work, and the role can lead to research leadership, academic careers or industry roles.

Sources: World Health Organization (Clinical trials), International Association of Clinical Research Nurses, UK National Institute for Health and Care Research, US National Institutes of Health.