Who is responsible for the research project?
The trainee will lead the research project in collaboration with the University and the training officer. However, the University will need to approve the project and will support the trainee to conduct the research. The workplace will also need to provide support to the trainee.
Who can help with the project in the workplace?
Ethical approval may be required and it is the responsibility of the department hosting the trainee. It is important that the trainee is supported in seeking approval and that time is allowed to achieve this.
The training officer, research and development department/team and department leads can also help with the project.
Individual responsibilities for parts of the research project
Identifying an idea for research
| Trainee | Academic supervisor | Training officer |
| Finding and selecting an idea for research | Supports trainee to identify any idea and gaps in knowledge.
May propose a topical research area if trainee or workplace does not have an idea. Will advise on suitability for Masters level study. |
May be involved to a greater or lesser extent.
May support the Trainee identify a topical research question and where relevant an individual within the department for the trainee to work with. Work with trainee and academic supervisor to ensure the proposed project is feasible and suitable for Masters level study. |
Developing the idea into a proposal
| Trainee | Academic supervisor | Training officer |
| Responsible for developing and writing the proposal | Support trainee to turn the idea into a research question and select appropriate methodology.
Provides early input on any feasibility or ethical issues and approvals relating to the research idea. Formative feedback on a draft version of the proposal on feasibility and suitability of the project as well as the research methods. Approves the protocol |
Provides input as to local feasibility and clinical support required.
Provide local knowledge of or contacts for relevant local processes or national approvals. |
Approvals
| Trainee | Academic supervisor | Training officer |
| Responsible for leading and completing applications, as necessary.
Uses NHS Integrated Research Application System (IRAS) and Health Research Authority (HRA) on-line guidance to ensure all documentation completed as required within timescale. |
Available for support for the completion of IRAS forms.
Where necessary, being present at ethics review or ensuring the Trainee can represent the project. |
Supports the trainee to obtain the information needed to satisfy local and national procedures.
Ensuring appropriate work-based support through the approval process. Where necessary, supports the trainee in presenting at the ethics review or ensuring that the trainee can represent the project. |
Deliver the research – Collecting research data
| Trainee | Academic supervisor | Training officer |
| Responsible for leading and carrying out of the data collection. | Available to support with trainee enquiries during the delivery phase. | Supports the trainee through work-based arrangements for the delivery phase. |
Analysing data, drawing conclusions and write up
| Trainee | Academic supervisor | Training officer |
| Responsible for carrying out the analysis and deriving conclusions.
Responsible for writing-up and submitting the project. |
Can advise and support the analysis of results and the drawing of conclusions.
Review drafts. |
Can advise and support the analysis of results and the drawing of conclusions.
Review drafts. |
Roles and responsibilities of the training officer
- Support the trainee with the chosen research project, with the focus on contribution to service development.
- Ask the trainee for the university’s requirements.
- Assist with obtaining ethical approval, if necessary.
- Ensure the trainee does not start the study until all permissions have been received.
- Ensure the trainee conducts the research according to Good Clinical Practice (GCP), research frameworks and local policies.
- Monitor the trainee’s progress and meet with the trainee on a regular basis.
Roles and responsibilities of the university/higher education institution
They will support the trainee to complete the research project by providing:
- advice where there is a difficulty in identifying a project
- advice on appropriate level for MSc
- methodological advice
- experience in supporting MSc projects
- help with write-up