Work with us
Want to work with us?
At the Sheffield Clinical Trials Research Unit (CTRU), we specialise in the design, conduct, and analysis of high-quality clinical trials and other well-designed studies. We are keen to collaborate with researchers from all backgrounds, from early-career clinicians to established academics who are looking to generate robust evidence that improves health and social care. We work with both researchers based within Sheffield and also nationally.
Collaborating with a CTRU provides your project with the methodological rigour and regulatory oversight essential for success. To ensure we can provide the highest level of expertise, please keep the following in mind:
We require you to get in touch a minimum of 8–12 weeks’ notice prior to any funding deadline. However, earlier contact is always better; the most successful bids are often those where we are involved from the very start.
We can only support projects that are appropriately funded. This includes ensuring that the necessary CTRU staff costs and trial-related expenses are fully costed into your grant application.
If you would like to work with us and have a defined research plan, complete the following form.
Sheffield CTRU collaboration request form
If you are not at that point, you can informally get in touch via the following email.
We can help you navigate the complexities of trial design and determine how our expertise aligns with your research goals.
Our Adoption Process
All projects supported by the unit undergo review prior to formal adoption. This process is designed to ensure methodological rigour and to increase the chance of funding success.
The process begins at initial contact, where we review a proposal's remit, timeline, and required support to determine if it meets our criteria for involvement.
If a project requires full CTRU adoption, we will arrange a formal Adoption Group Meeting. This structured, one-hour session includes a 25-minute presentation by the Chief Investigator covering the research design and PICOT, followed by an open discussion with our panel of experts in statistics, study management, and data management.
Following a closed discussion, the panel will provide a formal decision (to adopt, adopt with conditions, or defer) within one week.
Once a project is adopted, we will allocate a dedicated Proposal Developer and Lead Statistician to collaborate with you on the application.
Please note that for projects only seeking specific data management or statistical support, or for non-trial designs like Programme Development Grants (PDGs), a formal adoption meeting may not be required, though we remain committed to providing costed expertise where capacity allows.