Blogs, Articles and Q&As

How did you hear about the Associate PI Scheme?

I was encouraged to apply for the Associate PI Scheme by my educational supervisor after discussing ways for me to develop experience in delivering clinical research.

How did you balance taking part in the Associate PI Scheme with delivering your core role?

I completed the Associate PI Scheme while working as a core psychiatry trainee in a busy liaison psychiatry department. The trial team were very flexible in providing training for me to recruit and consent participants for the trial, and most of the work could be delivered remotely from my clinical office. I used study leave to attend the relevant courses and to review patients for the study, which required some negotiation with my clinical colleagues.

How did you help the delivery of the study?

During my tenure as an associate PI, I was involved in all stages of patient recruitment to the trial. This included screening patients' electronic health records against the study inclusion criteria and inviting them to participate. I also reviewed them to complete the consent process, relevant memory test, and escorted them to their research MRI scan. Furthermore, I was responsible for making sure that all the trial documentation was kept up to date. As part of the scheme, I helped distribute information about the trial by giving a presentation to my clinical team and by working with the local research data system manager to improve the way in which patients from regional memory clinics were referred for research studies.

How did you interact with the study team at your site?

I interacted with the study team on a weekly basis, through virtual and in-person meetings. I was mainly supervised by a clinical research fellow and the local principal investigator who were both very supportive.

Since completing the scheme have you continued to stay engaged in research?

Yes, in fact I have recently obtained funding to return to the same trial as a clinical research fellow. This role includes more responsibility for patient recruitment and trial management, and I hope to help bring the trial to completion.

What would you say to anyone considering taking part in the scheme?

The Associate PI scheme is a great way for junior doctors, and other healthcare professionals, to gain practical experience in the delivery of a clinical trial in a supportive environment. The workload is designed to flexible around a busy clinical career. I would encourage anyone who wants to get a taster of a career in research to apply. It might just give you the contacts and experience needed to apply for a more substantial position in research.

What was your biggest learning point from the scheme?

I was amazed to learn how much work goes on behind the scenes for every patient who is successfully recruited into a clinical trial. This has given me a new admiration for all the staff that work in the research units to deliver life-changing clinical trials.

Dr Axel Laurell 

Academic Clinical Fellow

Dr Nichola Manu old us how NIHR's Associate Principal Investigator (API) scheme helped open the door to clinical trials.

Nichola is a surgical doctor in training and started her ST3 training in 2021. She completed the API Scheme during her time working at the Countess of Chester Hospital. During her time at Chester, the opportunity arose to take part in the ROSSINI 2 Trial. A UK-wide clinical trial which assessed treatment options for surgical site infections (SSI).

What is the Associate Principal Investigator scheme?

Through National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) I undertook a six month in-work training placement. The placement helped me get the practical experience I needed to start my career in research. Its open to all healthcare professionals, and I got formal recognition for taking part. I got the chance to be part of a NIHR portfolio trial. And you receive support from a Local Principal Investigator (PI).

 What has been the highlight of your research journey so far?

I had no formal research experience, but this hasn't been a barrier. Colleagues considered me to be a fresh pair of eyes! The API scheme was a great opportunity to deliver a large study at a local level. The Principal Investigator (PI) supported me at every step. I got the chance to deliver key aspects of the trial. And I received a ‘Research Rising Star of the Year’ award at the Northwest Coast Research and Innovation Awards 2020.

I contributed significantly to the delivery of the trial. With oversight from the PI, I was involved in the delivery of all key aspects of the trial including identification of eligible patients, consent and follow up. 

 What opportunities has this led to?

I've broadened my exposure to opportunities in research. I have gone on to deliver other clinical trials, leading to regional presentations. And I am pleased to say that I am now a member of the ROSSINI 2 Trials Management Group.

Tell us about any challenges you faced?

Raising awareness of the study! Through hard work and perseverance, we achieved our goals! And it was rewarding to see how research brought everyone in the team together.

 How has your involvement in research benefitted your career?

The API role has given me the confidence to take on responsibility for the conduct of a research study. Above all, research has also allowed me to spend more time with patients. I've gained a better understanding of patient pathways and I’ve seen high-quality research benefit patients.

What are your future ambitions?

I plan to get more involved in the development of clinical trials. Pursuing a higher research degree is also part of my career plan.