The NIHR Imaging Specialty was established to support and coordinate this activity by collaborating with key national partners, including UKRI, the major medical research charities and patient groups. We work with NIHR-funded imaging researchers, patients and key stakeholders to develop a strong NIHR multidisciplinary community of practice for imaging research, ensuring that NIHR makes a visible, coordinated and effective contribution to scientific advances in imaging, including the development, application and evaluation of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
We support the development of the imaging research workforce, with a particular focus on those working in the NHS, work on improving the delivery of primary imaging research in the NHS and strengthening partnerships with industry.
Imaging is essential to safe and effective research delivery and is frequently used to support research, for example drug trials, as well as being the primary research focus. Accurate costing for set up and provision of imaging services is essential during the planning, set up and execution of research. This comprehensive guide explains in detail how to appropriately cost all aspects of imaging as part of research, including example case studies .
In 2023, the Imaging Group conducted an online survey of radiology departments and other NHS organisations in 14 NIHR Local Clinical Research Networks to establish themes and concerns around imaging research delivery capacity, infrastructure and workforce. The results of this survey were compiled into a report to help collate the key issues and inform policy to solve some of these bottlenecks.
Interested in taking part in imaging research? Read a collection of case studies from current imaging researchers across a range of disciplines and top tips for success.
A survey of radiology ACFs was conducted in 2020 the findings of which can be found here, including outcomes, challenges and opportunities.
Workforce shortages risk provision of Imaging services to support research. This 2022 publication details current challenges and potential solutions.
RECIST reporting plays a crucial role in oncological drug trials. Provision of a high quality and timely RECIST reporting service can be challenging for busy departments . A collection of different provision models in the NHS are provided here to aid sites looking to set up or improve their current RECIST reporting service.
In addition to the above models, the team has collated a list of some of the widely available resources and training materials around RECIST reporting: