14 February 2024
The BSRBR-RA and UK JIA Biologics register has signed up to a new initiative aimed at supporting the next generation of research study investigators.
The NIHR Associate Principal Investigator Scheme aims to develop healthcare professionals to become the Principal Investigators (PIs) of the future.
It is a 6 month in-work training opportunity, providing practical experience for healthcare professionals starting out in their research career.
The scheme offers individuals who would not normally have the opportunity to take part in clinical research in their day-to-day role the chance to experience what it means to work on and deliver an NIHR portfolio study under the mentorship of an enthusiastic local Principal Investigator (PI).
Principal Investigators and studies who sign up to this scheme receive increased support at a site level as well as formal recognition of engagement in NIHR Portfolio research studies through the certification of Associate PI status, endorsed by the NIHR and Royal Colleges.
Dr. Kath Watson, Programme Manager for the two patient registers states;
“The NIHR Associate PI Scheme will be of great benefit to the BSR Registers, as it will increase support for the study at all sites, hopefully increasing the speed at which they are delivered. Additionally, data suggests that sites which have a registered Associate PI benefit from increased patient recruitment to the research studies.
We would really appreciate your support in driving engagement with the Associate PI Scheme for our studies and can provide one-to-one training for all APIs on the BSRBR-RA and UK JIA Biologics Registers.”
To find out more information and to apply to become an Associate PI please follow these links below:
Associate Principal Investigator (PI) Scheme | NIHR
Associate PI Scheme Trainee Application form
Toolkit for Local PI’s - contains useful information & guidance on supporting an Associate PI
BSRBR-RA Study and the NIHR Associate PI Scheme' flyer