Job summary
The chemotherapy clinical research nurse role will be part of the research workforce within the Trust and will support the delivery of high-quality research studies. Our portfolio of oncology and haematology studies is increasing and we are therefore looking for a motivated, skilful and knowledgeable Systemic Anti Canter Therapy (SACT) trained nurse who works well as part of a team. Knowledge of clinical research is favourable but not essential.

The postholder will be an autonomous practitioner working within the multidisciplinary team to deliver in-house, national and international clinical trials. Whilst the primary base will be at the Queen Elizabeth Queen Mother hospital within the Clinical Research Facility (CRF), the post holder will be expected to work alongside the East Kent Cancer Research Centre, based at the Kent and Canterbury Hospital which will require hybrid working across all sites. This will require frequent travel between sites.

The post holder will provide specialised clinical nursing care, with a specific focus on the delivery of systemic anti-cancer therapies within a clinical trial setting.

Main duties of the job
Responsibilities will include education of patients and colleagues, the coordination of care for patients on clinical trials, collection, processing and shipping of biological samples, trial data collection, the administration of SACT and investigational medicinal products, collection and reporting of clinical trial data, collection and reporting of unexpected side effects.

The post holder will have sufficient skills and experience to practice independently and within the wider team, building up a specialised knowledge relating to the conduct of clinical trials, therapies and related diseases.

Although the post holder will focus on oncology and haematology studies you would be also be expected to support other trials with patients or healthy volunteers in the CRF.

The core working hours are 8-6pm but some evenings, weekend and bank holiday working may be required dependant on the need of the service.

About us
We are one of the largest hospital trusts in England, with five hospitals and community clinics serving a local population of around 800,000 people. Our vision is 'great healthcare from great people'. Everything we do is guided by our values: 'People feel cared for, safe, respected and confident that we are making a difference'. We have a new way of working at East Kent Hospitals, called 'We care'. It's about empowering frontline staff to lead improvements day-to-day. We're looking for compassionate people to be part of our improvement journey for the patients, families and carers we care for every day.

Please note that if you require a Certificate of Sponsorship to work in the UK you must declare this on your application form, even if you currently have a certificate of sponsorship or a work permit for another role and are already working in the country. Please note we are only able to sponsor candidates for a Skilled Worker Visa for roles that are eligible at the time of application.

Job responsibilities
Please see the attached job description and person specification located under 'supporting statement'.

Person Specification
Qualifications and training
Essential

• Registered Nurse with current NMC registration
• Degree or willingness to undertake
• Evidence of CPD (Continuing Professional Development)
• Recognised chemotherapy course

Desirable

• Relevant specialist course or equivalent experience in oncology or haematology nursing
• Formal research training
• IATA training
• GCP training

Clinical skills and experience
Essential

• Minimum of 3 years of post registration experience
• Proven SACT competence- completion of formal training
• 1 year experience as a band 5 in haemato-oncology setting
• Experience of explaining complex concepts to patients in a clear and simplified manner
• Venepuncture/Cannulation/IV drug adminisation/CVAD access
• Proven experience as working as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Ability to prioritise workload and manage own time effectively with proven organisational skills
• Ability to work to targets and deadlines
• It skills including email and office packages
• Ability to work as part of a team with excellent collaborative and negotiation skills

Desirable

• Previous experience of delivering cancer clinical trials
• Previous experience of working in clinical research within the NHS
• Experienced in teaching others and responding to learning needs
• Mentorship
• Previous line management experience
• Working knowledge and experience of the appraisal process
• Previous use of system: KOMS/DATIX/PAS/Imedidata/INFORM/REDCAP

Governance
Essential

• Knowledge of clinical research standards and regulations
• Knowledge of safety reporting and pharmacovigilance
• Current understanding of key issues facing the NHS both locally and nationally

Desirable

• Basic understanding of research design and methodology

Personal/professional attributes
Essential

• Upholds and models the Trust values
• Professional and punctual
• Meticulous attention to detail and interpersonal skills
• Excellent team player
• Ongoing professional development

Desirable

• Calm, supportive, motivated and adaptable

Other requirement
Essential

• Flexible attitude and enthusiasm
• Committed to self development

Desirable

• Car owner and driver

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.

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.

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.

Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website.