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Blog written by Marivic Ricamara, CRF Lead Nurse and Research Directorate Head of Research Delivery Workforce
My professional journey commenced within the familiar confines of a hospital, where I began my career as a cancer nurse. However, a significant turning point came when I delved into the world of clinical research while working as a sister in a chemotherapy day care unit. This path has been immensely fulfilling.
As a research nurse, I grappled with a distinctive challenge, finding a balance between the compassionate care instilled in me during my early nursing career and the stringent protocols inherent in clinical trials.
Over time, I've discovered that empathy and adherence to research guidelines can coexist. Navigating the fine line between providing patients with exceptional care while upholding the integrity of the study is a skill I've honed over the years.
My involvement in the establishment of early phase units and the execution of early phase clinical trials within the NIHR UCLH Clinical Research Facility, initially as a Research Nurse Manager, has been pivotal. In December 2020, I assumed the roles of CRF Lead Nurse and Research Directorate Head of Research Delivery Workforce.
A crucial aspect of my role is collaborating closely with a diverse team of professionals, including doctors, clinical research practitioners, and fellow nurses. The constructive interaction of teamwork is incredible, and it reminds me daily of the power of collective effort in advancing medical knowledge. The profound sense of shared purpose was perhaps most vividly exemplified during the pandemic, where I played a significant role in the execution of urgent public health studies.
While this career is not without its challenges, from navigating complex regulatory requirements to addressing unexpected issues in clinical trials, the firsthand experience of witnessing how our work leads to improved treatments and patient outcomes is a truly remarkable reward.
The healthcare field is in a constant state of evolution, and research nursing is no exception. Staying updated on the latest medical advancements, trial methodologies, and ethical considerations is an ongoing part of the job. This commitment keeps me engaged and excited about what lies ahead. Learning remains an integral part of my journey, and I seize every training and educational opportunity offered by the organisation and the professional network.
For anyone considering a career in research, my advice is this, build a strong foundation in healthcare by gaining experience as a nurse, medical professional, or in a related field. This knowledge proves invaluable when working with patients in clinical research. A career in research can be demanding, but a passion for advancing medical knowledge and improving patient care will provide the motivation needed to persevere.
Lastly, I am very passionate about raising the profile of research from a delivery perspective as well as NMAHP (Nursing, Midwifery, Allied Health Professions) perspective. In my current role, I aspire to effect change by facilitating staff entry into research careers, including the development of clinical research practitioners, while concurrently expanding the agile research delivery workforce within our organisation.