Learn the fundamentals of clinical research operations

12 Sep 2025
research

A free self-paced training program is now available to everyone involved in clinical research at UNSW.

UNSW Medicine & Health Clinical Research Unit (CRU) has launched a new training program to support and strengthen clinical research across the UNSW network.

Fundamentals of Clinical Research Operations is open to everyone involved in clinical research, from operational staff to researchers and affiliates and can be accessed via Moodle using your UNSW zID.

The program features 13 practical modules covering the essentials of running clinical research, such as feasibility, data management, essential records and monitoring.  

“This is a significant and timely initiative from CRU. After discussing the program with an academic colleague, it became clear just how valuable this resource will be for the research community,” said Dr Paris Tavakoli, Project Manager at St George Clinical Campus.

“It’s fantastic to see it come to life. Sincere thanks to the entire CRU team for their commitment to equipping researchers with the knowledge, tools, skills and infrastructure needed to conduct ethical and impactful clinical research.”  

In addition to technical content, the program includes soft skill recommendations to help strengthen communication and leadership skills required to deliver high-quality clinical research.  

CRU developed the training in collaboration with The George Institute for Global Health to enable participants to gain knowledge that is both practical and internationally relevant. It aligns with UNSW policies and global best practice guidelines, including ICH Good Clinical Practice (ICH-GCP).  

Making real impact

This learning initiative aligns with UNSW’s broader Progress for All strategy by building continuous capacity across individuals, teams and organisations, shaping a future-focused workforce and enabling healthy lives through innovative, high-quality research that makes a real impact.  

As the clinical research landscape evolves, the program will also help researchers stay up to date with emerging tools while meeting regulatory and ethical standards, ensuring projects are delivered efficiently and effectively.

All members and affiliates of the UNSW clinical research community are encouraged to take advantage of this free learning opportunity. Engaging with the modules not only strengthens individual research practice but also contributes to a culture of excellence aligned with UNSW’s mission.

Image above: Expert training managers and research advocates from The George Institute and CRU. Louise Huskic, Operations Lead, Capacity Building & Learning, Academic Project Operations, The George Institute for Global Health; Sarah Rathmell, Clinical Research Training Manager, Clinical Research Unit, UNSW Medicine & Health; Kate Ballard, Global Lead, Research Training, Centre for Operational and Research Excellence, The George Institute for Global Health.

 

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