Clinical research networks
The
UK Clinical Research
Network (UKCRN) is part of the UKCRC. It has put in place a
UK-wide clinical research infrastructure to support the conduct and
delivery of a range of high quality studies across the full
spectrum of disease and clinical need.
The Coordinating Centre for the UKCRN, based
in Leeds and London, was established by a consortium including the
University of Leeds, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, the MRC
Clinical Trials Unit and University College London. It
is directed by Professors Peter Selby and Janet
Darbyshire.
The UKCRN’s first phase of work was to
establish Topic-Specific Clinical Research
Networks in England in medicines for children, diabetes,
stroke, and dementia and neurodegenerative diseases, to
complement the networks in cancer and mental health which were
already in place. A Primary Care Research
Network was also established by the UKCRN, which works closely
with the Topic-Specific Clinical Research Networks to support
research in primary care.
Since April 2007 the UKCRN has been
implementing the NIHR Comprehensive Clinical
Research Network, which covers all other areas of research not
addressed by the Topic Specific or Primary Care Research Networks
in England.
The UKCRN is also working with key partners in
Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland to
facilitate the delivery of clinical research across the whole of
the UK.
Available downloads:
- PowerPoint
slides giving an overview of the UK Clinical Research
Network
- UKCRC/AMRC
workshop summary - this June 2007 workshop explored the
opportunities and challenges for charities to engage with the
UKCRN.
- Charity
Engagement Leaflet - explains the funding
opportunities for charities presented by the new clinical research
environment, including the UKCRN.