Job summary
The Research Team Leader provides expert guidance and oversight for clinical trials, ensuring adherence to the Research Governance Framework and Good Clinical Practice (GCP). This role involves independently managing a diverse portfolio of research projects, supporting recruitment performance, and maintaining high standards of participant care and data integrity. The leader will build professional networks, visibly engage with staff and participants, and act as a role model for clinical and research excellence.
Key responsibilities include effective communication with internal and external stakeholders, obtaining informed consent, and providing specialist advice. The role involves selecting and managing studies, monitoring performance metrics, resolving data queries, and overseeing study closure. The leader ensures accurate data collection and documentation, supports treatment monitoring, and may act as Principal Investigator.
Additionally, the role promotes staff development, ensures compliance with mandatory training and audits, and supports financial planning, including study costing and budget oversight. The Research Team Leader fosters a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, and professional growth within the research team.
We have two Research Team Lead vacancies, one vacancy at Yeovil hospital and one vacancy at Musgrove Park Hospital.
Main duties of the job
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The department of clinical research is responsible for the safe and effective delivery of clinical trials across SFT. Clinical research is how we determine the best ways to prevent, diagnose or treat disease. The department collaborates with patients, carers, NHS trusts, academic and commercial partners, supported by theNational Institute for Health Research (NIHR)to take research to health and care settingsto improve treatment, care and services.
The post holder will provide expert knowledge, skill and experience in the specialist field, and act as an expert resource to advise and support those involved in clinical trials at all levels. The post-holder will autonomously plan, implement, organise and manage multiple research projects, which will develop multidisciplinary networks across the Trust, enabling recruitment accrual in line with departmental and NIHR objectives.
The Research Team Leader is responsible for the implementation and monitoring of the clinical requirements of research studies to ensure optimum delivery of clinical trials. They will adopt a highly visible clinical profile and be accessible to research participants and staff. They will lead by example and empower staff with continuing professional development, promote the undertaking of research studies to improve patient care, ensuring that research is conducted in line with the Research Governance Framework and Good Clinical Practice guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of trial participants are protected.
About us
At Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, we're committed to supporting our employees with a range of benefits designed to enhance your professional and personal life. We offer:
- Flexible working options to help you balance work and life
- NHS pension scheme for long-term financial security
- Generous annual leave allowance to recharge and relax
- A strong focus on career development to help you grow and achieve your potential
Additionally, you'll gain access to our Blue Light Card, unlocking exclusive discounts on shopping, dining, and leisure activities, as well as NHS-specific perks to support you both inside and outside of work.
We are proud to foster a diverse, skilled, and inclusive workforce, and we encourage applications from all backgrounds.
Why Somerset? Somerset offers the perfect blend of idyllic countryside, outstanding areas of natural beauty, and breathtaking coastlines, with vibrant cities like Bristol, Bath, and Exeter just a short drive away - and only two hours to London.
The region is home to excellent educational facilities, and with affordable housing compared to other parts of the country, it's a great place to build both your career and your future.
Somerset truly has it all - the peaceful countryside and cosmopolitan city life, with something for everyone to enjoy.
Job description
Job responsibilities
Job Purpose
The Research Team Leader is responsible for the strategic and operational leadership of a clinical research team, ensuring the safe, effective, and compliant delivery of a diverse portfolio of clinical trials. The post holder will lead on study selection, team performance, patient recruitment, and regulatory compliance, while acting as a role model and expert resource in clinical research practice.
Key Responsibilities1. Communication and Collaboration - Communicate complex clinical research information clearly and compassionately to patients, carers, and staff using various methods (face-to-face, email, phone, written).
- Treat all individuals with respect and professionalism, upholding the values of the Trust and research team.
- Provide specialised advice to patients and families regarding research participation.
- Obtain and document informed consent and act as an expert resource in consent processes.
- Promote collaborative working across the Trust, NIHR, and external research networks.
- Seek and act on feedback from research participants and their families.
2. Study and Portfolio Management - Lead the management of a balanced clinical trial portfolio aligned with team capacity and capability.
- Oversee the Expression of Interest and study feasibility process.
- Review protocols for deliverability and recruitment potential.
- Collaborate with PIs, R&D, and Lead Nurse to resolve resource challenges.
- Monitor team workload and performance, ensuring recruitment targets are met.
- Develop strategies to overcome recruitment barriers and study-specific challenges.
3. Operational Oversight - Delegate roles within the team based on study complexity and staff skill mix.
- Oversee coordination of study visits, including off-site visits, ensuring lone worker policies are followed.
- Ensure maintenance of Trial Master Files and essential documentation.
- Investigate incidents, review monitoring reports, and ensure timely data query resolution.
- Lead study close-down and support preparation of research results for dissemination.
4. Data and Performance Management - Use research management systems to monitor performance metrics.
- Interpret data to assess team and study performance.
- Ensure accurate and secure data collection, entry, and documentation in line with protocols and regulations.
5. Clinical and Patient Care - Maintain a visible presence in clinical areas, supporting staff in both clinical and managerial roles.
- Act as a clinical expert and role model, ensuring high standards of patient care and research delivery.
- Ensure safe handling of samples, drug administration, and monitoring of treatment side effects.
- Support escalation of clinical concerns and ensure appropriate specialist referrals.
- Maintain accurate documentation in both trial systems and patient records.
6. Regulatory and Quality Assurance - Ensure compliance with the Research Governance Framework, GCP, and EU Clinical Trials Directive.
- Promote a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
- Ensure accurate record-keeping in line with the Data Protection Act and regulatory standards.
- Participate in audits, inspections, and quality assurance activities.
7. Financial and Resource Management - Support accurate costing of clinical trials and understand income streams (e.g., RRDN SWP, RCF).
- Assist in managing the research workforce budget and ensure financial sustainability.
- Oversee team-related travel, training, and commercial costings.
- Ensure research equipment and medical devices are maintained and fit for purpose.
8. Leadership and Team Development - Line manage Senior Research Nurses/Practitioners and oversee wider team management.
- Provide clinical supervision, mentorship, and support staff development.
- Apply HR policies to manage performance, sickness, and recruitment.
- Ensure team health, safety, and security.
- Lead recruitment and retention efforts to maintain a safe and effective skill mix.
9. Education and Training - Support training and development of research staff, practitioners, and administrators.
- Deliver education and training to the wider multidisciplinary team.
- Ensure staff complete mandatory and GCP training.
- Promote professional development and appraisal of research findings to inform practice.
10. Governance and Representation - Contribute to the development of SOPs and research policies.
- Maintain effective communication with clinical and research teams.
- Represent the Trust and research team at regional and national forums.
- Contribute to the development of the R&D department and participate in the core operational team.
- Deputise for the Lead Research Nurse/Practitioner and provide cross-cover for other Team Leads.
11. Risk and Incident Management - Promote a blame-free culture for incident reporting and lead local investigations.
- Resolve complaints in collaboration with patients, carers, and healthcare professionals.
- Monitor clinical standards and escalate persistent concerns to the Trust Lead Nurse for Patient Safety.
12. Professional Accountability - Work within the relevant professional code of conduct and demonstrate accountability for actions.
- Ensure ongoing professional registration of clinical staff.
- Assess team performance using business intelligence reports and dashboards.
Key Working Relationships - Lead Research Nurse/Practitioner
- Clinical Research Team
- Principal Investigators
- R&D Manager and Team
- Regional Research Delivery Network (RRDN SWP)
- Trust Senior Nurses and AHPs
- Study Participants and Families
- Clinical Trials Pharmacy and Diagnostic Services
- Study Sponsors and Clinical Research Associates
Job description
Job responsibilities
Job Purpose
The Research Team Leader is responsible for the strategic and operational leadership of a clinical research team, ensuring the safe, effective, and compliant delivery of a diverse portfolio of clinical trials. The post holder will lead on study selection, team performance, patient recruitment, and regulatory compliance, while acting as a role model and expert resource in clinical research practice.
Key Responsibilities1. Communication and Collaboration - Communicate complex clinical research information clearly and compassionately to patients, carers, and staff using various methods (face-to-face, email, phone, written).
- Treat all individuals with respect and professionalism, upholding the values of the Trust and research team.
- Provide specialised advice to patients and families regarding research participation.
- Obtain and document informed consent and act as an expert resource in consent processes.
- Promote collaborative working across the Trust, NIHR, and external research networks.
- Seek and act on feedback from research participants and their families.
2. Study and Portfolio Management - Lead the management of a balanced clinical trial portfolio aligned with team capacity and capability.
- Oversee the Expression of Interest and study feasibility process.
- Review protocols for deliverability and recruitment potential.
- Collaborate with PIs, R&D, and Lead Nurse to resolve resource challenges.
- Monitor team workload and performance, ensuring recruitment targets are met.
- Develop strategies to overcome recruitment barriers and study-specific challenges.
3. Operational Oversight - Delegate roles within the team based on study complexity and staff skill mix.
- Oversee coordination of study visits, including off-site visits, ensuring lone worker policies are followed.
- Ensure maintenance of Trial Master Files and essential documentation.
- Investigate incidents, review monitoring reports, and ensure timely data query resolution.
- Lead study close-down and support preparation of research results for dissemination.
4. Data and Performance Management - Use research management systems to monitor performance metrics.
- Interpret data to assess team and study performance.
- Ensure accurate and secure data collection, entry, and documentation in line with protocols and regulations.
5. Clinical and Patient Care - Maintain a visible presence in clinical areas, supporting staff in both clinical and managerial roles.
- Act as a clinical expert and role model, ensuring high standards of patient care and research delivery.
- Ensure safe handling of samples, drug administration, and monitoring of treatment side effects.
- Support escalation of clinical concerns and ensure appropriate specialist referrals.
- Maintain accurate documentation in both trial systems and patient records.
6. Regulatory and Quality Assurance - Ensure compliance with the Research Governance Framework, GCP, and EU Clinical Trials Directive.
- Promote a culture of safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
- Ensure accurate record-keeping in line with the Data Protection Act and regulatory standards.
- Participate in audits, inspections, and quality assurance activities.
7. Financial and Resource Management - Support accurate costing of clinical trials and understand income streams (e.g., RRDN SWP, RCF).
- Assist in managing the research workforce budget and ensure financial sustainability.
- Oversee team-related travel, training, and commercial costings.
- Ensure research equipment and medical devices are maintained and fit for purpose.
8. Leadership and Team Development - Line manage Senior Research Nurses/Practitioners and oversee wider team management.
- Provide clinical supervision, mentorship, and support staff development.
- Apply HR policies to manage performance, sickness, and recruitment.
- Ensure team health, safety, and security.
- Lead recruitment and retention efforts to maintain a safe and effective skill mix.
9. Education and Training - Support training and development of research staff, practitioners, and administrators.
- Deliver education and training to the wider multidisciplinary team.
- Ensure staff complete mandatory and GCP training.
- Promote professional development and appraisal of research findings to inform practice.
10. Governance and Representation - Contribute to the development of SOPs and research policies.
- Maintain effective communication with clinical and research teams.
- Represent the Trust and research team at regional and national forums.
- Contribute to the development of the R&D department and participate in the core operational team.
- Deputise for the Lead Research Nurse/Practitioner and provide cross-cover for other Team Leads.
11. Risk and Incident Management - Promote a blame-free culture for incident reporting and lead local investigations.
- Resolve complaints in collaboration with patients, carers, and healthcare professionals.
- Monitor clinical standards and escalate persistent concerns to the Trust Lead Nurse for Patient Safety.
12. Professional Accountability - Work within the relevant professional code of conduct and demonstrate accountability for actions.
- Ensure ongoing professional registration of clinical staff.
- Assess team performance using business intelligence reports and dashboards.
Key Working Relationships - Lead Research Nurse/Practitioner
- Clinical Research Team
- Principal Investigators
- R&D Manager and Team
- Regional Research Delivery Network (RRDN SWP)
- Trust Senior Nurses and AHPs
- Study Participants and Families
- Clinical Trials Pharmacy and Diagnostic Services
- Study Sponsors and Clinical Research Associates
Person Specification
Qualifications
Essential
- Relevant Healthcare Degree or relevant experience.
- Research Training (GCP, degree module, informed consent).
Desirable
- Postgraduate or Master's level qualification or willing to work towards.
- Management or Leadership Qualification.
Experience
Essential
- Extensive experience of clinical research within the NHS setting
- Broad and recent clinical experience relevant to the post
- Line Management experience within the NHS.
- Proven record of meeting participant recruitment targets
- Experience of delivering commercial research
Additional Criteria
Essential
- Willingness to use technology to improve standards of care and support to our patients.
- Willingness to undertake any necessary training and development to enhance work performance.
Person Specification
Qualifications
Essential
- Relevant Healthcare Degree or relevant experience.
- Research Training (GCP, degree module, informed consent).
Desirable
- Postgraduate or Master's level qualification or willing to work towards.
- Management or Leadership Qualification.
Experience
Essential
- Extensive experience of clinical research within the NHS setting
- Broad and recent clinical experience relevant to the post
- Line Management experience within the NHS.
- Proven record of meeting participant recruitment targets
- Experience of delivering commercial research
Additional Criteria
Essential
- Willingness to use technology to improve standards of care and support to our patients.
- Willingness to undertake any necessary training and development to enhance work performance.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
UK Registration
Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see
NHS Careers website (opens in a new window).
Additional information
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
UK Registration
Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see
NHS Careers website (opens in a new window).
