We constantly ensure research quality through rigorous adherence to regulations, principles and standards of good practice.

The Clinical Trials and Research Governance (CTRG) team is based within the Churchill Hospital, close to the clinical research active environment.

We aim to facilitate clinical research within the University and the Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, through providing a support and advisory service to researchers; enabling the speedy processing of research sponsorship applications; communicating effectively and efficiently with external customers; protecting the interests of participants and researchers; and protecting and safeguarding the interests of the University and Trust by careful monitoring of adherence to regulations, principles and standards of good practice.

The role of CTRG includes:

• Maintaining and updating a comprehensive library of template documents available for researchers to download from the website: e.g. Protocol, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Provision of face-to-face GCP training and online GCP training accredited by the Royal College of Physicians
• Facilitation of the University/ORH Trial Safety Group
• Facilitation of communication between the Oxford University Trials Units
• Administration of the Oxford Tropical Ethics Committee (OxTREC)

CTRG also:

• Represents the University on relevant bodies and networks involved in European and UK governance helping to make the clinical research environment less bureaucratic
• Has developed and maintains strategic links with government bodies helping to shape the future of governance
• Liaises with the local NHS Trusts and Thames Valley Comprehensive Local Research Network
• Is charged with keeping up-to-date with regulatory changes and promulgating these as necessary to ensure the University is able to remain compliant

CTRG maintain a database of all University-sponsored and hosted clinical research studies to facilitate compliance with the applicable governance, regulations and reporting timelines. The database is used for the annual insurance return to the University clinical trial insurance provider.

We believe that our dedicated team allows us to continuously improve research quality across all aspects of the University’s trials activity.