RCSI Clinical Research Centre
The interaction between clinical research, advanced diagnostics and fundamental science continues to grow in the RCSI clinical research centre. The centre now has 15 dedicated research nurses with expertise in cardiovascular, respiratory, neurology and rheumatology research. The centre has had over 12,000 patient visits to date. New research areas have been developed in HIV, prostate cancer and in the treatment of venous ulcers. In 2007 the volume of our investigator and pharmaceutical led studies increased significantly with enhanced collaboration between scientists and clinicians. Consistent with our growth in research projects has been an increase in clinical research nurses and research associates. The centre is now engaged in a 5-6 year follow up study of patients at risk for lung cancer. A study initially led by Beaumont Hospital consultants through the clinical research centre that has led to major publications to date.
Research from the centre has contributed to both new and continued funding through the Higher Education Authority and Science Foundation Ireland. The CRC contributed significantly to the Forfás report of 2007 on research infrastructure in Ireland - building for tomorrow.
The Clinical Research Centre will continue to work on behalf of patients in promoting the value of clinical research to enhance their care through advances in medical science and advanced diagnostics.
Dermot Kenny, MD
Director, Clinical Research Centre
The year 2007 has brought several new Investigators to the Clinical Research Centre. The support and research nursing expertise offered by the CRC has enabled these investigators to conduct studies that would not have been possible otherwise. As we continue to develop and extend our experience in different therapeutic areas our research nurse profile has also expanded. The project management skills of the research nurses together with their ability at identifying and overcoming obstacles typically encountered with research studies have been recognised both by funding agencies and industry. Several of the research staff have either completed or are undertaking higher degrees. The CRC plays an active role in enabling the development of research nurses. Research nurses in the CRC continue to be the focal point of advocacy for patients both in their daily practice and through the forum of advanced education and publications.
Ailbhe Murray, RGN
Director of Nursing, Clinical Research Centre
