Information for new researchers

The RD&I Division can give you help and advice with your research project.

If you are considering undertaking a research project within Velindre University NHS Trust, please contact the RD&I Division first.

E-bost/ Email: Velindre.R&DOffice@wales.nhs.uk
Ffôn/Tel: 02920 615888 (ext 4442)

The role of the RD&I Division

Ensure the safety and rights of research participants
Ensure information about research is available to patients and clinicians
Ensure research is of a high scientific quality
Develop and deliver the Trust’s research strategy
Provide support to researchers throughout the research pathway, from grant applications to publication
Ensure the central registration of projects
Ensure studies are feasible to take place in Velindre considering factors such as patient population, study team, training, support departments, funding, equipment, and facilities
Ensure Velindre fulfils its legal, regulatory and financial responsibilities relating to hosted and sponsored research
Manage risks and resolve issues in real time
Monitor study performance
Review and negotiate contracts
Sponsor studies locally and internationally – visit the sponsor information page for more information

The RD&I Division can help with:

Funding and grant applications
Application form completion
Study document design and format
Research submissions (RD&I, Health and Care Research Wales (HCRW), Research Ethics Committee (REC))
Study setup including contacting support departments, setting up agreements and the like
Formal access to the Trust - Honorary Contracts/Letters of Access
Sponsorship – visit the sponsor information page for more information

Is my project research?

Not all projects are research. The Health Research Authority (HRA) have developed a tool to determine if a project is research. Please click the following link to access the tool and answer a short questionnaire:

HRA – Is my study research?

If you are thinking of undertaking a project please contact the RD&I Division before you complete any forms.

E-bost/ Email: Velindre.R&DOffice@wales.nhs.uk
Ffôn/Tel: 02920 615888 (ext 4442)

Registering a research project

Registering a research project can be a daunting process for new researchers. Please contact the RD&I Division as early as possible as they can provide support and guidance throughout the process.

E-bost/ Email: Velindre.R&DOffice@wales.nhs.uk
Ffôn/Tel: 02920 615888 (ext 4442)

Research application

The following documents are typically included as part of a research application:

Organisation information document (OID)
IRAS application form – can be accessed using the IRAS Form
Schedule of events
Protocol
CVs and training certificates of researcher and their team
Participant information and consent documents if applicable
Regulatory approval letters - Health and Care Research Wales & Research Ethics Committee where applicable
Confirmation of portfolio adoption if applicable
Relevant model agreement, provided by sponsor where applicable
Pharmacy, laboratory, and radiology manuals where applicable
Insurance, provided by sponsor
Any other documentation deemed required by the site in order to complete the capacity and capability assessment

In addition, the Velindre RD&I Division require the following document as part of the research application (other NHS organisations might have something similar):

Completed Velindre RD&I Study Feasibility Form

The RD&I Division will support you through the process and offer guidance at every step. Please contact the RD&I Division before you start to complete any forms:

E-bost/ Email: Velindre.R&DOffice@wales.nhs.uk
Ffôn/Tel: 02920 615888 (ext 4442)

The Learned Society of Wales Early Career Researchers network

A national network for Early Career Researchers (ECRs) to meet, learn and collaborate. Registration is free and open to all.

They cover all academic disciplines and institutions in Wales, as well as researchers in the third sector, government and industry. This network is aimed at anyone who is starting a career in research or starting to work with researchers.

The network offers a focussed programme of activities to researchers who self-identify as ECR. These strengthen researchers’ skills and capacity. They run workshops and conferences, grant schemes and awards. They encourage inter-disciplinary collaboration by bringing together researchers from across Wales to work with their Fellows.