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Kylie Gyertson

Blog written by Kylie Gyertson, Head of Cancer Clinical Trials Unit, UCLH

​​​Twenty years ago I took a job as a Research Nurse without really knowing what it would involve; I had an inkling it would suit me and to be honest I was done with shift work.

Kylie Gyertson
After studying Biomedical Science at university I’d gone on to obtain a postgraduate nursing qualification. I worked on an acute respiratory ward developing my clinical skills and progressing my career. I loved my patients and my colleagues but something was missing. On something of a whim I took a research nursing position believing it would allow me to use both my scientific and clinical skills and I was right, I have never looked back.

As a haematology research nurse I worked on all phases of clinical trials, a number of which were practice changing. I saw the impact on my individual patients as well as the broader reach of this work as new treatments were approved and made available to all. That really inspired me then and still does today. I still think “I was part of that” when I hear those drug names mentioned. I loved my work.

The drive for a wider impact; the ability to improve treatments, outcomes and experiences, not just for individuals but for all cancer patients led me to a management position. However, as I settled into the role I found a second love, just as strong; I loved my team! The privilege of leading people, of handpicking them at interview, playing a part in their development and watching them flourish in these important roles was so special. When the opportunity arose to pursue a Masters I chose one in management rather than a clinical discipline.

I came to UCLH in 2014 as the Head of the Cancer Clinical Trials Unit. My nursing registration was not essential for the role and my patient facing days were over. I had a large and ambitious team to lead and over the past 9 years we have gone from strength to strength. There have been so many achievements to be proud of in that time; we have developed new and innovative roles within the cancer research workforce, doubled the size of the team to offer more patients access to trial treatments, treated the first adult in the UK on a CAR T trial, delivered a major lung cancer screening trial and seen numerous therapeutic approaches improve the survival and experience for cancer patients.

Along the way I let my nursing registration lapse and fully embraced my role as manager and leader. People often ask if I miss patient care but I really don’t feel I ever left it. I may not get to see patients in person but everyday I work with a wonderful, committed team who I know have a huge impact on the lives of our patients and their families and I’m extremely proud to still think “I am part of that”.