Senior Research Nurse

NHS; City Of London; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare organization is seeking an exceptional senior research nurse to join their Oncology and Haematology Clinical Trials team. The role involves clinical leadership for a growing research portfolio, managing a large caseload of patients, and ensuring high-quality research delivery. Applicants must hold NMC Level 1 Registration and have substantial experience in clinical trials. The position offers opportunities for professional growth and development.

Qualifications

• Substantial experience in clinical trials, teaching, and mentoring.
• In-depth knowledge of clinical trials and UK regulations.
• Demonstrable leadership experience.

Responsibilities

• Manage a large caseload of patients autonomously.
• Coordinate the research patient pathway from screening to trial closure.
• Ensure adherence to trial protocols.

Skills

Excellent communication skills

Accuracy and attention to detail

Dexterity for venepuncture

Ability to work autonomously

Interpersonal skills

Education

NMC Level 1 Registration – RN Adult

Masters level qualification or higher

Tools

Basic lab skills (pipetting, centrifugation)

Job description

Overview

We are looking for an exceptional senior research nurse to join the MPN (Myeloproliferative Neoplasm) Research Team within the Oncology and Haematology Clinical Trials (OHCT) team. This post provides clinical leadership for a rapidly expanding research portfolio and supports the team to deliver high-quality research. The successful candidate will work alongside the Team Lead to identify patients suitable for entry into clinical trials, participate in the informed consent process, and coordinate the research patient pathway from screening through to trial closure.

Applicants must be a registered adult nurse with evidence of continuing professional development. A strong clinical background with experience in NHS clinical research is essential, along with excellent communication, multitasking abilities, and the initiative to work independently and manage a patient caseload across multiple studies.

Responsibilities

• Work autonomously to manage a large caseload of patients, ensuring duty of care to patients and their families.
• Operate within EU clinical trial directives in accordance with ICH GCP to ensure adherence to the trial protocol.
• Identify patients suitable for entry into clinical trials by attending clinics and MDT meetings.
• Participate in the informed consent process, acting as a resource and support to patients and their families.
• Coordinate the research patient pathway from screening through to trial closure, including setup stage prompts for trials.
• Take precautions to minimise cross-infection risks and ensure safe disposal of body fluids including blood products.
• Support administration of trial drugs, report side effects as outlined in the protocol, and liaise with local nursing teams.
• Maintain adequate patient records and ensure documentation in medical and nursing notes.
• Complete Clinical Report Forms (CRFs) accurately and coordinate data collection from clinical trials.
• Keep up to date with cannulation, phlebotomy, care of Central Venous Access lines, and handling of systemic anti-cancer therapy (SACT) and Investigational Products (IP).
• Identify recruitment strategies for trials and support team development and mentorship.
• Act as a role model for excellence in oncology/haematology research and serve as the key worker for trial patients, coordinating with the medical team and CNS where relevant.
• Signpost or refer trial patients to supportive care services and review protocols for risk and resource implications.
• Attend pre-study visits and feasibility reviews to map patient pathways and resolve safety issues.
• Coordinate on-study treatment and follow-up with the medical team and sponsor organisations; assist in site trial set-up and submissions to R&D where applicable.
• Disseminate information to relevant departments and supervise data collation from trials.
• Support invoicing for payments where appropriate and build strong professional relationships across departments.
• Contribute to service development, staff recruitment, and the implementation of the key worker concept within the Research Team.
• Work to maintain trial accrual targets and contribute to quality assurance systems.
• Prepare posters and papers for meetings and conferences; represent the team at local and national forums; participate in service development and clinical supervision as appropriate.

Qualifications and Experience

Essential

• NMC Level 1 Registration – RN Adult
• Evidence of continuing professional development and substantial experience in clinical trials, teaching, and mentoring
• In-depth knowledge of clinical trials, the drug development process, and UK clinical trial regulations (GCP, DoH/Declaration of Helsinki)
• Ability to set direction and lead a team of research professionals; demonstrable leadership experience
• Knowledge of current NHS cancer and palliative care legislation and recommendations

Desirable

• SACT/Chemotherapy accreditation
• Immediate Life Support (ILS) accreditation
• Masters level qualification or higher
• In-depth understanding of research methodologies across phase I–IV trials

Skills

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Accuracy and attention to detail; ability to work autonomously and within a multidisciplinary team
• Dexterity for venepuncture, injections, cannulation, and handling of infusion therapies; basic lab skills (pipetting, centrifugation)

Special Conditions

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and requires Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance. UK registration and sponsorship information apply as appropriate. All applicants should be aware of visa and criminal records checks guidance as applicable.