Research Design Service

Researchers looking for advice and support in developing clinical research projects in Scotland can access help in through the Research, Development and Innovation offices in each NHS Scotland Health Board.

Support provided at each site will vary, but offices are able to provide local support, and can direct researchers to appropriate help and support if this is not available locally.

Researchers can contact their Health Board's local Research, Development and Innovation office for advice.

Alternatively, contact the regional hub that your Health Board is part of.

Pre-Award Support

Advice on grant writing and funding applications
Protocol writing, clinical trial development and study design
Patient and Public Involvement / Engagement (PPI/E) in study development
Advice on developing inclusive research
Statistical support

Post-Award Support

Approvals and Finance

IRAS application advice
ACoRD/SoECAT support
Risk assessment of regulated studies and complex non-regulated studies
Specialist safety committees (for example, Phase 1 Study Review Committee, Advanced Therapies Gene Modification Safety Committee)

Study Set Up and delivery

Project management support
Site identification and selection
Performance monitoring
Sponsor pharmacy
Pharmacovigilance and drug safety (CTIMP)
Investigational supplies and QP release
CTIMP study monitoring
Data management

Supporting Research