New to Clinical Research?

We have developed resources to support you if you are new to clinical research in Lothian. Click on the links below for information on our Introduction event and our Induction programme.

An Introduction event for those new to working in clinical research in Lothian

ACCORD and Edinburgh CRF host Welcome Days for those who have recently been appointed into a clinical research role in NHS Lothian or University of Edinburgh. 

Suitable for all roles including clinical research support staff, delivery teams, researchers and academics.  

Objectives for the days include:

  • To introduce the research landscape in NHS Lothian and understand where and how individual roles fit within this.  
  • To raise awareness of the support structures and resources available to those working in clinical research.  
  • To network and engage with colleagues across the organisation.
  • To inspire and motivate individuals in their new role.

Click here for programme showing the topics covered on the day (programme subject to change).

Feedback received:

  • "It was very informative and a great way to meet new people that are also starting out in their NHS careers"
  • "It was incredibly useful to get an overview of how everything is organised in ACCORD, the workflows, and information about the key departments. Also useful to get an idea of who to contact for help in each area"
  • "The course allowed me to understand the purpose of clinical trials and the departments and people involved. I learned about key contacts in the field"
  • "I really enjoyed starting the session by looking at the bigger picture of clinical research and the impact we have on society. It was very motivating!"
  • "This day has been very helpful regarding the information sharing but it was also really nice to network with UoE and NHS colleagues and feel that everyone is working together across the different sites"
  • "Would definitely recommend people attend this session within the first 3 month of starting their job. Gives a great overview of research and the resources available"
  • "Overall, this is a very valuable event. I can highly recommend this to anybody starting to work with clinical trial"

How to book a place

Welcome days are organised quarterly and are a full day in person course (0930-1530 hrs).  These are free of charge to attend, however registration is still required.  The next event will take place in 01 November 2024. 


An open educational resource of our local Nursing and Clinical induction programme

In 2022, Edinburgh CRF developed and launched a new 12 week induction programme for Band 5 Research Nurses at the facility based on the UKCRF Induction Framework. This has since been extended to other roles in the CRF. This resource is available for other organisations and departments on request. 

This short video introduces the 12 week clinical induction delivered to new staff at Edinburgh CRF. 

If you are interested in finding out more, or for a copy of the paperwork please email: education@edinburghCRF.ed.ac.uk.

Please visit the UKCRF website to find out more about the UKCRF Induction Framework.

Find out more about the process of developing the Induction Process at Edinburgh CRF via our poster submitted for the UKCRF 2023 conference.