Major boost to train the next generation of trials methodologists

The Trials Methodology Research Partnership DTP brings together 12 partners—Bangor University, the University of Liverpool (lead), the Institute of Cancer Research, Newcastle University, Queen Mary University London, University College London, the Universities of Aberdeen, Birmingham, Cambridge, Glasgow, Leeds and Plymouth) to provide doctoral training to 30 students for the next three years.

The Partnership DTP is one of 17 projects funded by the MRC as part of a £79million investment to support high-quality doctoral training programs that take a student-centered approach, focusing on scientific excellence, positive research culture and wider training opportunities.

The Trials Methodology Research Partnership DTP will develop and train a cohort of researchers with methodological skills and insight beyond clinical trials, filling a strategic skills priority gap.

Professor Dyfrig Hughes, from Bangor University's Center for Health Economics and Medicines Evaluation, said:

"Well designed trials are vitally important for demonstrating the benefits of healthcare interventions."

"At Bangor, our focus is primarily on the methods of assessing the value of medicines and other health technologies to the NHS, using data from clinical trials. The aim of this DTP is to improve the opportunities for students in relation to multidisciplinary skills expertise. The DTP has been carefully designed and the structured 'core' training program will be complemented by a range of more specialized optional training courses. It will provide them with the opportunity to gain experience and training from researchers from a wider range of disciplinary backgrounds and from different types of research organizations, which will give them a better understanding of the trials environment and improve their career opportunities."

The Trials Methodology Research Partnership builds on the success of the MRC Network of Hubs for Trials Methodology Research which was created to improve health by improving trials.

Professor Fiona Watt, executive chair, MRC, said: "We are thrilled to announce our funding for the next generation of MRC Ph.D. researchers through 17 new UK-wide Doctoral Training Partnership awards. Outstanding research is only possible when we invest in people to conduct that research. Our new awards are student-centered, setting out to increase the diversity of individuals pursing research careers and providing opportunities for students to widen their horizons during and post-Ph.D."

Provided by Bangor University