UK Clinical Research Network (UKCRN)

Clinical research networks have been established in each of the four UK nations funded by the UK Health Departments. Together these national networks form the UK Clinical Research Network (UKCRN), strategic oversight for which is provided by the UKCRC.

The structure of the networks varies between each country, but all share the common goal of providing the infrastructure to support high quality clinical research studies for the benefit of patients. There is a commitment to ensure that the clinical research networks across the UK work together in an integrated manner to share experiences, develop joint initiatives and promote partnership and UK-wide working wherever possible.

The NIHR Clinical Research Network Coordinating Centre (NIHR CRN CC) is based in Leeds and London and is directed by Professors Peter Selby and Janet Darbyshire. NIHR CRN CC supports a range of UK-wide activities across the four nations through agreed approaches between the various coordinating centres and clinical research network staff.

The NIHR CRN CC is building a complete picture of the clinical research taking place within the UKCRN across the UK. Details of studies which meet specific eligibility criteria are recorded in a database, known as the UKCRN Portfolio. This comprises the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Clinical Research Network Portfolio in England, and the corresponding portfolios of Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

The UKCRN Portfolio is a national data resource which will be used for research management and to support the performance management of the UK clinical research networks.

©2005 United Kingdom Clinical Research Collaboration.