Research

Research and development is an important part of our hospital’s work. It informs our treatment programmes and contributes to a better understanding of many conditions. In partnership with local universities in Bath and Bristol, as well as many other universities and NHS trusts, we ensure that this research is carried out to the highest standards.

Research is undertaken in all our service areas, with approximately 30 projects being carried out at any one time. This rolling programme of research includes basic science studies, looking at blood and tissue cells to find the causes of disease and illness; multi-centre clinical trials, testing new treatments; and the development and assessment of new therapies.

Areas of current research include:  

• connective tissue disease, including lupus, scleroderma,
• spondyloarthropathy, including psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis
• complex regional pain syndrome
• chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME)
• pain management
• neuro rehabilitation.

How can I get involved in research?

There are several ways to get involved in research at our hospital: 

• If you are a patient, carer or member of staff, we have an ongoing programme of research which you may be suitable for. If there are none currently of interest, we are happy to hold your contact details, with your permission, and forward project details which may interest you in the future.
• If you are a patient, you may wish to volunteer to assist researchers when putting together new research projects as an expert user.  Again, we are happy to keep your contact details so we can contact you when new projects in your area are being considered. 

Information for researchers
Researchers applying for RNHRD R&D trust approval for their research project will find relevant information and application forms in the useful links box on this page.  

R&D committee meetings are held monthly on the third Tuesday of the month and the deadline for submission is 9am the Tuesday before. For submission requirements, please see ‘Applying to carry out research with patients, staff or carers at the RNHRD’ in the useful links section. If you are an RNHRD member of staff, please contact the R&D manager to make an appointment prior to finalising your IRAS form.

If you would like more information, please contact:

Jane Carter, R&D manager
R&D Office
RNHRD
Upper Borough Walls
Bath BA1 1RL

Tel. 01225 481156, ext 201

Email research@rnhrd.nhs.uk