Clinical Research Practitioner

Building on our track record of delivering pioneering research, we are working in collaboration with Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Trust, University of Cambridge, and the Cancer Research UK (CRUK) Queen Mary University of London Cancer Prevention Trials Unit (CPTU) to deliver a clinical trial into the early detection of Oesophageal Cancer, the BEST4 Screening Study.

This is an exciting project funded by CRUK and the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR). The trial aims to determine whether the Capsule Sponge test can be used to determine early diagnosis of cancer of the oesophagus and reduce the number of deaths due to oesophageal cancer.

The BEST4 screening study will recruit 120,000 participants, who will be invited for a Capsule Sponge test on the BEST4 mobile units located in approximately 5 regions across the UK. To support this study, we are recruiting Clinical Research Practitioners to work across different locations (within a designated region). This is an exciting opportunity to be involved in a ground-breaking clinical trial and work across different locations carrying out clinical trial activities to ensure the successful delivery and recruitment of the BEST4 study.

You will be responsible for managing clinics on the BEST4 mobile unit and will be trained to administer the Capsule Sponge test. You will work alongside established clinical teams, researchers, research nurses, research practitioners, and administrators to facilitate recruitment, sample collection, data entry, and providing clinical support as required. You will therefore be required to travel to various sites and undertake clinics in a mobile unit.

You will also need to liaise closely with the National Clinical Coordinator regarding appointments and cover on the unit. You will work closely with the National Clinical Coordinator, Clinical Research Team, and Project managers at QMUL, Cambridge, and EMS to ensure we meet the study objectives. You will be responsible for ensuring clinical and regulatory compliance, and that each participant's journey and their individual experience is to the highest standard, which is a vital part of this role.

Requirements
We seek a motivated, enthusiastic, and flexible candidate to join the BEST4 team. This is a clinical patient-facing post, which requires a dynamic individual who can work both independently and as part of a team.

A full programme of induction and ongoing support will be provided to the successful candidate.

Main Duties Include:

• Managing the clinic on the BEST4 mobile unit.
• Promote and nurture a welcoming, professional, and pleasant environment for all participants.
• Be able to provide and receive complex information in the process of explaining study involvement and obtaining informed consent.
• Complete the BEST4 participant screening visit as per study protocol.
• To confirm the participant is safe and able to take part in the study.
• Complete the informed consent process with the participant prior to the Capsule Sponge test.
• To complete the Capsule Sponge test on the participant.
• Work autonomously to manage their caseload of participants, whilst working as part of a wider BEST4 research team.
• Perform other clinical skills, as required, to care for participants during their study visit (e.g. emergency practices).
• Work in accordance with local policy and procedures and be able to take appropriate action in case of emergencies (detachment, bleeding, resuscitation, or anaphylactic reaction).
• Ensure that mandatory training is kept up to date as per local policies and requirements.
• Work closely with the BEST4 clinical coordinator to address areas where re-training in Capsule Sponge test administration might be required.
• Responsible for inputting data onto the electronic Case Report Form (eCRF) and other related research databases as required.
• Collect, record, verify, and enter study data with a high degree of accuracy and in accordance with the principles of ICH Good Clinical Practice (ICH GCP).
• Work in accordance with regulations as described in ICH-GCP, National Directives, and Research Governance of Cambridge University, the Trusts, CPTU, and EMS Healthcare policies and procedures.
• To identify potential barriers to recruitment and be involved in implementing action plans as required.
• Facilitate and maintain effective communication with the study team, BEST4 Research Practitioners, and study participants. Attend and contribute to meetings relevant to the BEST4 study and mobile units.
• Liaise with various study personnel at Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Trust, University of Cambridge, CPTU, and EMS Healthcare as necessary.
• Responsible for driving the BEST4 mobile units to the different research sites as per the study schedule.

Essential Criteria
Qualifications

• Relevant healthcare qualification (e.g. Paramedic, Midwife, Radiographer, Dietitian, or equivalent).
• Continued CPD.

Experience

• Clinical experience working with patients.
• Significant clinical experience working with patients.
• Experience in working as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team.
• A good understanding of clinical research.

Skills

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (verbal/written).
• Ability to work accurately and methodically with excellent attention to detail.
• A team player, whilst possessing the ability to work independently and on their own initiative.
• High level of organisational and time management skills.
• Excellent IT knowledge/skills and proficient in MS Office Software.

Other

• Full, Clean UK Manual Driving Licence. Travel to various sites, and drive the clinical mobile unit (requiring only a standard car driving licence) to support delivery of study activities.
• Willing to travel and complete overnight stays as required.

Desirable Criteria
Qualifications

• Degree in a related subject area.
• Registered Nurse (NMC).
• ICH GCP Training.
• Training on Basic Life Support (BLS) or Immediate Life Support.

Experience

• Prior research experience.
• Upper GI or endoscopy experience.
• Experience in Cancer Research.
• Experience in Nurse-led/Practitioner-led clinics.
• Prior experience of working with the Capsule Sponge device.

Benefits
You work hard for us; we work hard for you. It is that simple. And we know, it sounds too good to be true (we hear that a lot). But trust us, this could be the best decision you make.

• Bank holidays, plus 25 days annual leave, increasing to 28 after 5 years.
• 1 Occasion Day each year; this could be your child’s first day of school, their nativity play, or your own birthday – the choice is yours!
• Healthshield.
• Subsidised company events and gatherings.
• A gift for your birthday.
• Well-being support from our qualified Mental Health First Aiders, as well as via our health scheme.