Research Training Framework

Completion of this framework demonstrates that you have undertaken learning and development in clinical research and research methods. Once downloaded, you should start by reading it completely. You may already have some knowledge and experience about some areas. If you are new to research it may take you one or more years to finish all the activities and learning described. If you are already research active, some recent experience/courses can be used as evidence.

Overall it is likely to take up to a year to complete all aspects of the Framework and recent prior learning can be used as evidence.

Learning outcomes:

• Understanding of clinical research methods
• Competence to participate as an Investigator in research studies
• Good Clinical Practice research certification
• Competence to undertake critical review of research topics/ideas
• Understanding of statistics or qualitative methods for clinical research
• Knowledge of writing research protocols, research data, and peer-reviewed papers
• Understanding of how research training can be used in routine clinical practice to enhance patient care

Modules

The Framework contains 2 Modules; Module 1 Research Methodology and Module 2 Clinical Studies.  Each module provides a list of the relevant core Knowledge, and academic Competencies required and makes suggestions for how each might be achieved and evidenced.

Users should review the Knowledge and Competency columns in the modules, do a self-assessment and make a note as to how they have achieved or formulate a plan for how they intend to achieve each one. 

This part of the process is for each user's own reflection on their progress and provides a suggested structure for how they might develop their research skills and knowledge.  Achievements with the Knowledge and Competencies described in the Modules do not need to be reported as part of certification, but we suggest users will find it helpful to keep notes that may help when completing the Evidence pages, and also more generally for discussions with managers, colleagues etc.

Log book record

In addition to making a self-assessment against the Knowledge and Competencies in the 2 Modules, users should complete the Clinical Research Logbook to track their progress.

If you have any questions about using the Framework please contact the Radresearch team at radresearch@imperial.ac.uk  

P‌lease complete this online form to receive a copy of the Framework directly to your inbox.

Q.            How can the framework help with my career? 

A.             Using the framework will increase your research awareness and skills, which will enhance your clinical practice and approach to patient care.  You can also use the framework to structure your appraisal, performance review and revalidation discussions and also for your personal skills and knowledge development.  The framework can also be helpful as a guide or tick-list for developing staff or when preparing fellowship or other applications.

Q.           Is completing the Framework mandatory?

A.           No.  It is entirely optional.  It has been developed for clinical staff who might want to play a more active part in research, develop research careers, or simply to have a better understanding of clinical research.  However, we believe that possession of research skills and research awareness are important in routine patient care and have benefits for all clinical staff in their day to day work. You can use the framework as a checklist to assess your research skills and address any training needs.

Q.            How does the Clinical Research Training Framework relate to other frameworks, such as competency frameworks, that I use for my clinical/professional development?

A.           The CRTF is entirely optional and complementary to any other frameworks you may be using for clinical/professional development, including competency frameworks specific to your role.

Q.           How do the Modules relate to the log book record?

A.           The Modules describe the range of Knowledge and Competencies needed to develop your research skills – they are essentially a curriculum.  We recommend you read through each item described and make a personal note of how you meet, or plan to meet each of the criteria. 

Q.           Do I have to complete all of the activities in the ‘Training to achieve this’ columns in the Modules?

A.           No.  These are suggested ways in which you might achieve each area of knowledge or competency – there will be other ways in which you can do this. If you have an idea for an activity that you feel might help meet the knowledge or competency, but aren’t sure if it would be acceptable - please contact Radresearch for advice – radresearch@imperial.ac.uk  

Q.           Do I have to attend the specific courses/sessions listed in the ‘Training to achieve this’ columns?

A.           No.  These are only suggestions and in all cases you should attend training specific to your profession and career stage. There are many training providers/resources that can help you achieve the same aims. 

Q.           Is there any funding available to support attendance at courses that will contribute towards completing areas of the framework?

A.           Unfortunately not.  There will be events organised by Radresearch that are available free of charge and are promoted on the News & Events of our website.  However, your employer may offer bursaries that contribute towards the course costs; you will need to check locally. 

These are some resources you might refer to when working through the Framework.  This is just a starting point, there will be many other places of reference, information and support that you could use. A more comprehensive list can be be found in the Framework.

Coursera:  https://www.coursera.org/

Futurelearn:  https://www.futurelearn.com/

College of Radiographers: www.sor.org/learning-advice 

Council for Allied Health Professions Research: cahpr.csp.org.uk 

Health Research Authority:  www.hra.nhs.uk/planning-and-improving-research/learning/

Integrated Research Application System:  https://www.myresearchproject.org.uk/

FutureNHS Platform: https://future.nhs.uk/