Edinburgh Clinical Trial Pathway

The pathway supports investigators through a coordinated network of specialised stakeholders. Each partner plays a crucial role in progressing a trial from initial concept to completion.

The Academic and Clinical Central Office for Research and Development (ACCORD) provides research governance, regulatory oversight, and sponsor support. ACCORD ensures that trials meet all ethical, regulatory and legal requirements, and guides investigators through the complexities of research governance, approvals and compliance processes.

The Edinburgh Clinical Trials Unit (ECTU) is a UKCRC Registered academic clinical trials unit and offers expertise in trial design, management, analysis and reporting. ECTU works closely with investigators to acquire research funding for multi-centre trials, develop and design robust study trial protocols, undertake trial management, implement randomisation and data capture systems, manage and monitor trial data, and conduct and report statistical and health economic analyses, ensuring regulatory compliance and scientific rigor and integrity.

Clinical trials requiring dedicated facilities can benefit from the Edinburgh Clinical Research Facility (CRF), which provides state-of-the-art clinical environments, specialised equipment, and trained staff to conduct a variety of clinical studies.

The Edinburgh Research Office (ERO) facilitates funding and grant applications, providing advice on financial aspects, and ensuring compliance with funding bodies’ stipulations.

The CMVM Research Office provides additional support specific to the medical field, including accessing specialist resources..

This integrated support structure ensures that investigators are well-equipped and guided at every step of their clinical trial.