Research Support Officer

Job overview

We are seeking a motivated and dynamic Research Support Officer to join the Research Governance team within the Research and Development Department. This is an exciting opportunity to support the growth of clinical research across Wigan Borough and help increase access to innovative treatments and therapies for local communities.

The post holder will provide high-quality administrative support to the Trust’s research governance function, assisting with the set-up, approval and ongoing management of a diverse portfolio of research studies. Working closely with researchers, clinical teams, sponsors and external partners, they will help ensure governance processes are delivered efficiently and in line with regulatory and organisational requirements.

The successful candidate will have excellent organisational and communication skills, strong attention to detail, and the ability to manage competing priorities in a busy environment. Previous administrative experience is essential, while experience within the NHS, clinical research, or higher education would be advantageous.

This role offers an excellent opportunity to develop a career in clinical research and contribute to studies that improve patient care and outcomes across the borough.

Please note that this vacancy may close early if a sufficient number of applications are received. We encourage interested candidates to apply promptly to avoid disappointment.

Main duties of the job

We are seeking an enthusiastic, organised and proactive individual with excellent communication and interpersonal skills. You will be able to build effective working relationships with clinical, managerial, research and administrative colleagues, as well as external stakeholders. Strong attention to detail, excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage a varied workload are essential.

The successful candidate will support the set-up and management of research studies, coordinate approval processes, process governance documentation, and maintain accurate study records and databases. They will act as a key contact for research-related enquiries, assist with governance monitoring and performance reporting, and contribute to service improvement initiatives.

The role requires a collaborative approach, discretion when handling confidential information, and the ability to work accurately within established procedures. You will liaise with sponsors, universities, NIHR networks and other partners, and support the organisation of meetings, audits and reports.

Experience of administrative databases and information systems is desirable. A commitment to ongoing training and professional development is essential to maintain knowledge and skills within a changing research and regulatory environment.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Research Governance Responsibilities

Administer the Trust’s research governance processes, including study registration, assessment, and site capacity and capability reviews, under the direction of the Research Governance Manager. Review research submissions to ensure completeness and compliance with regulatory, ethical, and governance requirements, working with researchers to resolve outstanding issues.

Liaise with clinical teams, pharmacy, finance, and support services to obtain approvals and documentation required for study set-up. Coordinate the processing of study approvals, amendments, annual reports, and study closures, ensuring records are accurate, up to date, and completed within agreed timeframes.

Manage the Trust’s Research Passport and honorary contract processes, providing guidance to researchers and maintaining accurate records of access arrangements. Offer advice and support to researchers, sponsors, and external organisations on research governance requirements and procedures.

Maintain research management systems and ensure paper and electronic documentation is stored, archived, and managed in accordance with Trust policies and Standard Operating Procedures. Monitor performance against local and national research targets, supporting the timely delivery of study set-up activities and effective governance across the research portfolio.

Applicant requirements

This post will require a submission for Disclosure to be made to check for any unspent criminal convictions.