Critical Care Research Nurse urges others to join the NIHR

A south London Critical Care Research Nurse is urging others within the profession to consider a career with the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR).

Tim Owen Jones, who works for Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, said research is integral in delivering improvements to treatments, medicines and diagnoses for patients.

The Critical Care Research Nurse, who spoke to promote the NIHR’s ‘Your Path in Research’ campaign, said research is a very rewarding profession to work in. He said:

“Raising the profile of research is so important. People are living longer with more complex conditions and research provides us with the evidence to improve care and to help our patients get back to their everyday lives.

“We understand a lot more through research and there is always room to deliver improvements to our practice. I’m privileged to work for an organisation that is very research active and incredibly supportive of clinical trials. The Trust is a fantastic ambassador for research and our patients clearly benefit from our work.

“In my opinion, the NIHR Clinical Research Network South London is a very important partner in NHS research. They offer access to a very supportive community, brilliant training and an environment that can lead to real, positive change for our patients. I’d encourage anyone to consider a career in research with the NIHR, it is worth it.”

Tim works with his colleagues to ensure research studies run smoothly in critical care, that participants are safe and that families are kept fully informed.

CRN South London’s Workforce Development Lead Nhlanhla Mguni said: “Many healthcare professionals say they find the experience of being involved in research studies positive and rewarding.

“As a network, we are proud to play our part in supporting vital research that improves patient care, and I’d also like to encourage others to consider a career within the NIHR.”

The NIHR is the largest funder of health and social care research in England, and the organisation provides the people, facilities and technology that enables research to thrive.

The ‘Your Path in Research’ campaign gives healthcare professionals the opportunity to learn more about research that can impact their day-to-day work, by highlighting a variety of ways they can take their first or next step in their research career.

More information about the ‘Your Path in Research’ campaign can be found on the NIHR’s website.