Navigating Clinical Research in the NHS

Join this session to discover how clinical research is developed and delivered within the NHS, from the first idea to study delivery.

About this session:
Hear directly from clinicians and investigators about their experiences, explore the support available from local NHS R&D teams, and connect with peers and system partners to strengthen your own research journey.

This Network Café is hosted by the Kingston and Richmond NHS Foundation Trust (KRFT) Research Department, in collaboration with system partners and leaders in clinical research.

The session is organised by Kat Brown, Associate Director of Research at KRFT, and Dr Andrea Forero Ozer, Clinical Research Fellow at KRFT. Together, they have designed a welcoming and practical space for clinicians, researchers, academics, and NHS staff to learn, share experiences, and build collaborations.

Agenda:
13:00 – 13:15 – Welcome & Afternoon Overview
13:15 – 13:45 – Funding Applications – A Clinician’s Perspective
13:45 – 14:15 – Local NHS R&D Support
14:15 – 14:30 – Refreshment Break and Informal Networking
14:30 – 15:15 – Expert Panel: System Partnerships & Collaboration
15:15 – 15:35 – Updates & What’s New
15:35 – 15:45 – People in Research: personal experience from investigators and participants.
15:45 – 16:00 – Reflections and Key Takeaways

What to expect:
· Practical insights – Learn about developing research ideas, navigating funding applications, and understanding local NHS R&D processes.
· Collaboration opportunities – Explore how partnerships across the NHS, academia, and communities can strengthen research.
· Personal stories – Hear directly from investigators and participants about their experiences of research in practice.
· Networking – Connect with colleagues and system partners to share ideas and explore future collaborations.

This session is open to anyone interested in NHS research, whether you are already involved in a study, considering your first project, or simply want to understand more about the process.

Meet the organisers:
Kat Brown has been leading research at Kingston and Richmond NHS for over a decade. With a background as a Biomedical Scientist and a Master’s degree in Medical Diagnostics and Molecular Medicine, she brings over 20 years of experience across the full translational research pathway, from laboratory to community. As Co-Community Settings Lead for the South London Regional Research Delivery Network, Kat is a passionate advocate for inclusive, high-quality research that reaches beyond traditional boundaries. She actively supports research capacity building, governance, and collaboration to ensure research benefits diverse populations.

Dr Andrea Forero Ozer is a medically trained researcher with a strong background in clinical practice and health systems research. She leads and supports clinical studies within the NHS across various therapeutic areas, including both commercial and non-commercial trials. Her experience also includes working with industry partners and stakeholders across Europe and America, contributing to projects that connect clinical care with innovation. At KRFT, she helps clinicians develop locally led research, navigate funding applications, and turn ideas into impactful studies that enhance patient care.

About South West London Research Support Network:
The South West London (SWL) Research Support Network, established by the NHS South West London Integrated Care System, is a collaborative initiative to empower local communities and voluntary organisations to conduct their own research.

Through a series of relaxed network meetings, members can engage in mutual learning opportunities with a diverse group of researchers and community members. This informal setting encourages open dialogue and the sharing of ideas, making it easier to change insights into various research methodologies and best practices.

In addition to exchanging knowledge with experienced community members and researchers, members will also have the chance to network with peers, which can lead to the formation of collaborative relationships and partnerships that leverage the strengths and expertise of all involved.