NIHR CRDC-PC: Greater Cambridge and Suffolk

The NIHR CRDC-PC: Greater Cambridge and Suffolk delivers high-quality commercial clinical research through a coordinated network of experienced research-active GP practices across urban, rural and underserved communities. Serving a population of around 1.4 million people, the CRDC-PC combines experienced clinical leadership, dedicated research infrastructure and close partnerships with Cambridge University Health Partners (CUHP), NHS Trusts and regional Clinical Research Facilities to develop integrated commercial research pathways across primary and secondary care.

Our team has built long-term relationships with global pharmaceutical companies and CROs through consistent pipeline and protocol design, delivery, high participant retention and a collaborative approach through participation in Global Expert Panels for sponsors.

The Centre has established a reputation for rapid study set-up, rapid study start-up and efficient recruitment and delivery to targets, supported by standardised governance processes and advanced patient identification systems. Over the past five years, the network has delivered more than 57, phase 2-4 commercial studies across a broad range of therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular disease, obesity, respiratory conditions, dermatology, vaccines and women's health. The CRDC-PC has also continued to expand research capacity across the region, successfully establishing three additional GP practices as commercial research sites within the first 6 months of the CRDC's activation.

With embedded research teams, dedicated facilities and innovative community-based delivery models, the CRDC-PC enables wider participation in research while reducing barriers for patients. The Centre is developing innovative approaches to patient engagement, including AI-powered avatars, multilingual and culturally adapted participant information, and digitally enabled outreach strategies to improve research accessibility, strengthen community engagement and support participation from traditionally underserved population.

Our collaborative approach supports timely study delivery, enhances access to research opportunities and contributes to the development of new treatments that improve patient outcomes across the region.