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This section pulls together pieces of content that we consider to be best practice. By utilising this content we believe you will be able to refine your research project to make it truly outstanding.

With the Medical Research Council (MRC) we provide an online tool that gives guidance on the preparation of participant information sheets (PIS) and consent forms. We do not expect applicants to simply follow a template, so our guidance will help you to design appropriate and proportionate information.

Researchers should be appropriately trained and qualified for their activities within a research study. We have issued guidance regarding the requirements for researchers to undertake training.

When considering which organisations will act as potential study sites, sponsors are strongly advised to have preliminary discussions with potential participating NHS organisations before submitting the IRAS form in order to understand if those organisations have the potential to participate.

We publish details of all research reviewed by the Research Ethics Committees (RECs) in the UK as a research summary record. This record consists of some basic information about the research (e.g. title, available registry reference numbers), summary of the research as submitted to the REC and the REC’s opinion.

For all clinical trials and clinical investigations (including CTIMPs, device studies, etc.), it is expected that a signed agreement between the sponsor and the host organisation will be in place before the research commences at the site.

The National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) have produced guidelines for researchers in relation to research passports. We would recommend that you spend sometime reading through the resources available on their website to ensure that you are compliant with their guidelines.

The National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) have produced industry costing templates to provide a framework for transparent cost display and calculation.

Your CV needs to demonstrate that you are qualified by education, training and experience to conduct the research.

If you are an investigator designing a clinical trial you will need to make early decisions as to which outcome measures to include.

Public involvement guidance from the HRA to help researchers involve the public in health and social care studies effectively and ethically. Explore best practice guidance from the Health Research Authority on involving patients and the public in health and social care research. Learn how to plan effective public involvement from the start, meet ethical standards, and improve research quality.

Guidance from the Health Research Authority to help researchers involve patients and the public in health and social care research. Learn best practice principles, legal requirements, and practical tips for effective public involvement throughout the research cycle.

Discover how the Health Research Authority champions public involvement in health and social care research. Learn about our initiatives, partnerships and commitment to embedding patient and public voices and experiences in research design, delivery, and dissemination.

Learn how the Health Research Authority involves the public in shaping its policies and guidance for health and social care research.

Information for members of the public involved in the Health Research Authority’s work. Learn how you can contribute, what to expect and where to find support and resources.

Stay updated with the Health Research Authority’s public involvement newsletter. Explore news, resources and best practice tips to support meaningful patient and public involvement in health research.