Job Summary
The closing date is 16 July 2026

Are you interested in discovering new information and knowledge? Keen to explore new processes, devices or treatments to improve patient outcomes? Are you naturally curious, constantly seeking answers and passionate about research?

The Research and Innovation Department are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated person to undertake the role of Clinical Research Nurse, working on a variety of projects. We are a hugely enthusiastic team with a thriving research portfolio of studies. Our work ranges from small scale observational studies to large scale multinational clinical trials within a wide range of conditions. Our team includes Clinical Research Nurses/Practitioners, Data Assistants and Research Facilitators.

We work closely with our clinical teams to offer CDDFT patients the opportunity to take part in research, seeking new treatments and better outcomes.

This is a band 5 role. Full training will be provided as per individual requirements.

Main duties of the job

• Facilitate recruitment and delivery of NIHR portfolio studies across all sites of County Durham and Darlington Foundation Trust.
• Increase recruitment of NIHR portfolio research by working in clinical settings and with clinical colleagues within CDDFT.
• To manage a range of portfolio studies overseeing timely set up, recruitment and close down of studies.
• To provide holistic care to all research participants throughout the duration of them taking part in research studies.
• To maintain effective and professional links with care groups via informal ways and attend regular governance meetings
• Engage with trial teams to ensure all research activity is conducted in a timely manner and in accordance with protocol
• Identify any barriers to research within CDDFT and work with care groups and support departments to facilitate smooth running of studies.

About us
If you are being interviewed you must accept an interview slot in the system to continue, even if you have arranged with the manager.

You must be able to produce ALL certificates stated essential in the person specification or you will not be able to complete pre-employment checks.

We provide hospital services from two acute sites - Darlington Memorial Hospital and University Hospital of North Durham. We have a centre for planned care in Bishop Auckland and provide care from community hospitals in Chester-le-Street, Shotley Bridge, Barnard Castle, Sedgefield and Weardale as well as over 80 other community based settings and providing care in patients' homes.

We particularly welcome applications from disabled and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) candidates as BAME and disabled people are currently under-represented.

Full Job Descriptions can be found in the adverts supporting documents.

Over reliance on AI-generated content is discouraged and may diminish the applicant's chances of success.

For the most up-to-date information on visa requirements and eligibility, please check online to determine whether you can apply.

Job responsibilities
The post holder will possess a variety of knowledge and skills that will be transferable to working as a Clinical Research Nurse.

The post holder is expected to work in a proactive, organised manner to co-ordinate a range of portfolio studies: to meet targets and troubleshoot any issues with recruitment or engagement. They will ensure all studies are conducted in accordance with the research protocol and always work within ICH Good Clinical Practice Guidelines for research.

We are looking for a team player who can also work independently, can cope under pressure, and has a flexible approach to their work.

The post holder must be able to demonstrate they have a passion for clinical research and providing the opportunity for patients and staff within CDDFT to be aware of research activity and how to take part in research.

Person Specification
Qualifications
Essential

• NMC registration
• Educated to Diploma/Degree level, or equivalent experience

Desirable

• Post graduate study in healthcare/ research.
• Training in Informed Consent
• GCP Trained

Special Requirements
Essential

• Able to travel across Trust sites to meet the requirements of the post
• Driving posts must have valid Full UK driving licence

Experience
Essential

• Previous experience at NHS Band 5

Desirable

• Evidence of experience of working on NIHR funded clinical research studies in the NHS.

Statutory Registration
Essential

• NMC registration

Special Skills & Knowledge
Essential

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work autonomously and meet deadlines
• Ability to work with complex databases.
• Report writing and presentation skills.
• Knowledge of informed consent process.
• Basic knowledge of current UK trials portfolio.
• Knowledge of NIHR, RRDN and Research Governance Framework.

Desirable

• Knowledge of NIHR and Research Governance Framework
• Awareness of changing trends within health and research
• Phlebotomy and cannulation skills
• Laboratory experience (i.e. use of centrifuge etc)

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.

Certificate of Sponsorship
Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website (Opens in a new tab).

From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants, applying for entry clearance into the UK, have had to present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants (Opens in a new tab).

UK Registration
Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website (opens in a new window).