CRF senior research nurse takes to the podium at national NIHR event
Jessica Lacey, a senior clinical research nurse, who started her research nursing journey as a placement student at the NIHR / Wellcome Trust Manchester Clinical Research Facility (CRF), presented at a recent national event.
Jessica was invited to give a presentation at the NIHR’s Celebrating Clinical Research Nursing event in Birmingham on Thursday 12th May, to coincide with International Nurses Day.
The programme of events focused on building a strong global health research system and developing the role of the nurse workforce.
After finishing her training as a student nurse at the CRF, Jessica went on to successfully apply for a clinical research nurse position last year.
Jessica spoke in a session alongside Study Manager and Clinical Research Nurse at University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Susan George.
Jessica talked about research nursing from the eyes of a student including how she developed clinical and research skills whilst on her placement; she explained how she had been involved in the development a student interest group and the benefits of having a placement in research.
Other speakers throughout the day included colleagues from the NIHR Clinical Research Network: Head of Workforce and Learning, Dr Fiona O’Neill; Director of Nursing, Learning and Organisational Development, Dr Susan Hamer; Head of People Development, Engagement and Wellbeing, Gillian Felton and Associate Director for Educational Quality Standards, Professor Allan Gaw.
Representatives from Cambridge NIHR BioResource, Department of Health, NIHR Trainees Coordinating Centre, University of Central Lancashire also took to the podium throughout the day to discuss ideas around the volunteer-centric model, shaping research nursing practice; a vision for NIHR; developing personal resilience and positive practice environments.
Jessica said: “I had a great day at the NIHR event in Birmingham and I am so happy to have been invited to take part and to share my experiences of being a student nurse in a clinical research environment.
I had such a positive experience during my time as a student at the CRF that when the opportunity for a permanent position arose following my training, I knew that I wanted to start my career in research and develop my understanding and passion for the area.
CRF Operational Director, Helen Pidd added: “I am delighted that Jessica was given the opportunity to present at the special event. I know that she gave an informative presentation about her role and inspired attendees with her experiences. It is important to us here at the CRF to give students the opportunity to work in research and learn more about the cutting-edge work and pioneering tests and treatments that we undertake every day.”
Visit the NIHR clinical research nurses webpage for more information and photos from the Birmingham event.
