Clinical Research Assistant - Indicative banding

Job overview

The post holder will provide administrative and research laboratory support to Research & Innovation teams to ensure the safe, efficient and compliant delivery of clinical research studies.

Working under the supervision of registered research staff, the post holder will support study set‑up, delivery, data management, and appropriate participant-facing activity, maintaining accurate research documentation in line with Good Clinical Practice (GCP), Trust policies and the UK Framework for Health and Social Care Research.

The role requires effective communication with research teams, study participants and Trust services and contributes to maintaining a high standard of participant care and research governance.

Main duties of the job

Provide clinical and participant support under supervision by assisting with the collection and preparation of research samples and observations (e.g. blood pressure, phlebotomy, urine testing, ECG where competent), coordinating sample logistics with couriers and sponsors, and ensuring participant dignity, privacy and infection control at all times. Support research administration and governance by maintaining accurate study documentation in line with ICH GCP, Trust SOPs and governance requirements, including version control, archiving, training records and preparation for monitoring and audit visits. Contribute to data management through accurate entry, tracking and retrieval of study data, maintaining confidentiality and responding to data queries. Deliver comprehensive administrative and operational support by managing communications, appointments, meetings, records, supplies and equipment, while acting as a key point of contact for the research team. Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams and external stakeholders, demonstrate effective communication, and uphold Trust policies, values, and professional standards including health and safety, safeguarding, and continuous professional development.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Clinical & Participant Support (Under Supervision)

• Assist with collection and preparation of research samples and participant observations in line with study protocols (e.g. blood pressure, phlebotomy, urine testing).
• Arrange and liaise with sample couriers and study sponsors to ensure the effective collection and delivery of study samples.
• Utilise extended skills such as venepuncture and ECG where trained and competent.
• Maintain participant dignity, privacy and confidentiality at all times.
• Support infection prevention and control measures within the research environment.

Research Administration & Governance

• Download, collate, file and maintain study documentation in accordance with ICH GCP, Trust SOPs and research governance requirements.
• Support version control, archiving and retrieval of study records.
• Maintain training records, CVs and GCP certification for research staff on relevant systems (e.g. EDGE or equivalent).
• Organise and support monitoring, audit and inspection visits.
• Liaise with clinical and non‑clinical teams to compile essential study paperwork, logs and recruitment reports.

Data Management & IT Systems

• Input and retrieve study data using approved research databases and hospital systems.
• Maintain accurate records, spreadsheets and trackers in line with data protection and confidentiality requirements.
• Support routine reporting and respond to data queries as required.

Administrative & Operational Support

• Act as first point of contact for the research team, answering telephone and email enquiries and taking messages as appropriate.
• Book and manage appointments, rooms, diaries, transport and meeting arrangements.
• Attend and minute research meetings as required, distributing actions and notes.
• Maintain stationery and Research Laboratory stocks and coordinate equipment repair and maintenance requests.

Communication & Teamwork

• Communicate effectively with colleagues, patients, research participants and external stakeholders.
• Work collaboratively within the Research & Innovation team to support service delivery and continuity.
• Support students, apprentices or work placements as required.

Governance, Safety & Professional Practice

• Comply with Trust policies including confidentiality, safeguarding, health & safety, infection control and information governance.
• Report incidents, accidents or risks in line with Trust procedures.
• Participate fully in mandatory training, appraisal and personal development activities.
• Demonstrate Trust values in all aspects of work.