Job Description

Job Purpose The Research Team Leader is responsible for the strategic and operational leadership of a clinical research team, ensuring the safe, effective, and compliant delivery of a diverse portfolio of clinical trials. The post holder will lead on study selection, team performance, patient recruitment, and regulatory compliance, while acting as a role model and expert resource in clinical research practice.Key Responsibilities1. Communication and Collaboration Communicate complex clinical research information clearly and compassionately to patients, carers, and staff using various methods (face-to-face, email, phone, written). Treat all individuals with respect and professionalism, upholding the values of the Trust and research team.



Provide specialised advice to patients and families regarding research participation. Obtain and document informed consent and act as an expert resource in consent processes. Promote collaborative working across the Trust, NIHR, and external research networks. Seek and act on feedback from research participants and their families.2.



Study and Portfolio Management Lead the management of a balanced clinical trial portfolio aligned with team capacity and capability. Oversee the Expression of Interest and study feasibility process. Review protocols for deliverability and recruitment potential. Collaborate with PIs, R&D, and Lead Nurse to resolve resource challenges.



Monitor team workload and performance, ensuring recruitment targets are met. Develop strategies to overcome recruitment barriers and study-specific challenges.3. Operational Oversight Delegate roles within the team based on study complexity and staff skill mix. Oversee coordination of study visits, including off-site visits, ensuring lone worker policies are followed.



Ensure maintenance of Trial Master Files and essential documentation. Investigate incidents, review monitoring reports, and ensure timely data query resolution. Lead study close-down and support preparation of research results for dissemination.4. Data and Performance Management Use research management systems to monitor performance metrics.



Interpret data to assess team and study performance. Ensure accurate and secure data collection, entry, and documentation in line with protocols and regulations.5. Clinical and Patient Care Maintain a visible presence in clinical areas, supporting staff in both clinical and managerial roles. Act as a clinical expert and role model, ensuring high standards of patient care and research delivery.



Ensure safe handling of samples, drug administration, and monitoring of treatment side effects. Support escalation of clinical concerns and ensure appropriate specialist referrals. Maintain accurate documentation in both trial systems and patient records.6. Regulatory and Quality Assurance Ensure compliance with the Research Governance Framework, GCP, and EU Clinical Trials Directive.



Promote a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement. Ensure accurate record-keeping in line with the Data Protection Act and regulatory standards. Participate in audits, inspections, and quality assurance activities.7. Financial and Resource Management Support accurate costing of clinical trials and understand income streams (e.g., RRDN SWP, RCF).



Assist in managing the research workforce budget and ensure financial sustainability. Oversee team-related travel, training, and commercial costings. Ensure research equipment and medical devices are maintained and fit for purpose.8. Leadership and Team Development Line manage Senior Research Nurses/Practitioners and oversee wider team management.



Provide clinical supervision, mentorship, and support staff development. Apply HR policies to manage performance, sickness, and recruitment. Ensure team health, safety, and security. Lead recruitment and retention efforts to maintain a safe and effective skill mix.9.



Education and Training Support training and development of research staff, practitioners, and administrators. Deliver education and training to the wider multidisciplinary team. Ensure staff complete mandatory and GCP training. Promote professional development and appraisal of research findings to inform practice.10.



Governance and Representation Contribute to the development of SOPs and research policies. Maintain effective communication with clinical and research teams. Represent the Trust and research team at regional and national forums. Contribute to the development of the R&D department and participate in the core operational team.



Deputise for the Lead Research Nurse/Practitioner and provide cross-cover for other Team Leads.11. Risk and Incident Management Promote a blame-free culture for incident reporting and lead local investigations. Resolve complaints in collaboration with patients, carers, and healthcare professionals. Monitor clinical standards and escalate persistent concerns to the Trust Lead Nurse for Patient Safety.12.



Professional Accountability Work within the relevant professional code of conduct and demonstrate accountability for actions. Ensure ongoing professional registration of clinical staff. Assess team performance using business intelligence reports and dashboards.Key Working Relationships Lead Research Nurse/Practitioner Clinical Research Team Principal Investigators R&D Manager and Team Regional Research Delivery Network (RRDN SWP) Trust Senior Nurses and AHPs Study Participants and Families Clinical Trials Pharmacy and Diagnostic Services Study Sponsors and Clinical Research Associates