When you take part in a clinical trial, you may meet the following people: 

Research nurses and clinical trial practitioners 

These are the team members you’ll see most often. They:

  • coordinate your care during the trial
  • are your main point of contact if you have questions or concerns
  • organise tests and take blood samples
  • support you and your family

Some research nurses also give you the trial treatment or procedure. Clinical trial practitioners do similar work to research nurses but come from a science background. They have special training in cancer research.

Principal Investigator (PI)

This is the person who leads the trial. In trials testing drugs, this is always a doctor. They:

  • make sure people are eligible to join
  • provide medical care and oversee treatment
  • talk you through the consent process
  • monitor your safety throughout the trial
  • lead regular team meetings with the research team

Data managers and clinical trial assistants

These staff usually work behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly. They:

  • enter and check data from the trial
  • keep important files up to date
  • manage paperwork and any changes to the trial
  • work with people who sponsor the trial
  • process test samples
  • coordinate meetings

Although you might not meet them in person, their work is essential to make sure the trial is safe, accurate and well organised.