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Blog written by Carlito Adan, Deputy Lead Nurse Clinical Research Facility (CRF)
I got involved in research as there has always been an element of curiosity in me, and I had always wondered how a certain drug or device came into being or how a procedure was developed. Then I saw how these new innovations and advancements improved the lives of patients. Consequently, I wanted to be part of something world-beating and ground-breaking in making a difference. So, when I learned that Clinical Research is one of the career options for nurses, I decided to follow my curiosity, and I quickly realised that this was the career direction that I wanted to take. This kind of involvement has made me look at research from a different perspective and I know that all these are driven by the positive contribution that research can make to improve patient’s care and outcomes.
I started working as Research Nurse where I gained basic clinical research nursing knowledge and skills. Then after gaining enough experience in managing my own portfolio of studies whether commercial (phases 1 to 4, including Post-Authorisation and Real World Evidence studies), or academic research, I progressed to become a Senior Research Nurse. I obtained my master’s degree qualification and completed my Leadership and Management certificate as well as a Research Study Design Module, and this eventually led me to become a Lead Research Nurse, where I managed a research delivery unit. Then an opportunity arose for me to work in a Clinical Research Facility in neurology as a Deputy Lead Nurse.
"Working in the CRF has further enhanced my understanding and experience in terms of management, governance and delivery of research portfolio by working collaboratively with different staff functions within the CRF (e.g. Operational Management, Data and Study Coordination team, QA, Laboratory and PPIE, etc). There is also a close relationship with another CRF (170 TCR) where training and development opportunities are shared among staff including some adhoc cross covering. The support that I receive from colleagues and the management team is invaluable."
Working in research not only allowed me to continue with my clinical nursing duties, but it has also opened doors for me to meet and work alongside the inspiring and committed individuals in the world of medical and clinical advancement and innovation. It has empowered me to follow my curiosity by becoming a Principal Investigator of a national multi-centre academic study, as well as leading my own initiatives and projects that enabled me to present the outcomes of my work both nationally and internationally, including being able to publish them in a peer-reviewed journal as the lead author.
Clinical research is a challenging but a rewarding career. It is an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of patients and to help advance clinical care and medical science. Aside from the many resources available to help you get started and settle in the job including the support from your colleagues and manager, I would say:
- Be patient – research protocols and procedures can be overwhelming, just take your time to get used to the routine.
- Be willing to learn - The clinical research field is constantly changing. Be prepared to learn new skills and technologies throughout your career.
- Be passionate - Clinical research can be a demanding field, but it is also incredibly rewarding. If you are passionate about your work, you will be more likely to succeed.
- Think Good Clinical Practice (GCP) – whenever in doubt, refer to GCP principles and guidelines, you can never be wrong if you follow it.