Insightful seminar on clinical studies

Grönwallsalen at Uppsala University Hospital gathered many interested attendees, including several doctoral students from the clinical research school. The theme of the day was clinical studies, with a strong focus on the research support available at both Uppsala University and Uppsala University Hospital. The programme also covered health data management and digitalisation.

“The purpose of this symposium was to focus specifically on clinical studies and the support available. There is a lot to consider, whether you are about to conduct your first study or have already completed several. It is important that researchers feel they are not facing those challenges alone,” says Theodora Kunovac Kallak, Acting Director of PMCU.

Strong and extensive research support

Two of the day’s contributors were Carin Marciszko, Research Advisor at the Research Support Unit, and Gunilla Nygård, Head of Unit at the Department of Research and Education at Uppsala University Hospital. Both presented the support structures available.

“As with all information, it can be difficult to navigate everything that is out there, so this day offered a valuable opportunity to gather information on a specific topic. Uppsala University has done a fantastic job with the Research Handbook, which Carin presented and which I use very frequently and recommend to others,” says Theodora Kunovac Kallak.

It is also encouraging that Uppsala University Hospital has been developing a similar model, which will be launched in February next year.

“The fact that Region Uppsala and Uppsala University Hospital will launch the Research Compass early next year, providing a single website where everyone can find comprehensive information, will make things easier for many,” Theodora notes.

What do you hope attendees will take away from the seminar?

“Knowledge and information, especially about where to begin when it comes to clinical studies. Both junior researchers and those who have completed several studies need to learn and be reminded of the excellent support available, since it is through clinical studies that future healthcare is shaped. Regulations and guidelines are updated regularly, and it is important to stay informed.”

World-first study presented

Uppsala Clinical Research Center (UCR) and Uppsala Biobank/Biolab also gave useful presentations, before Per-Ola Carlsson, Professor at the Department of Medical Cell Biology, took the stage. His study on transplantation of genetically modified insulin-producing cells without immunosuppressive medication has gained significant international attention, and offers hope of one day curing type 1 diabetes.

With extensive experience in clinical studies, he is well aware of the importance of support structures.

“Above all, the work before the study begins is the most difficult and demanding. First and foremost, numerous applications for grants and funding are required in order to carry out the study at all. The study itself is usually simpler and less complex to manage than the preparations,” he says.

He also offered a piece of advice to those approaching their first clinical studies, whether leading the work themselves or contributing to another researcher’s project.

“One important aspect is choosing the right research group. In addition to good personal chemistry, you need to consider the types of studies you want to conduct and at what level. To a large extent, you will conduct research and carry out studies in the same areas as the research group you belong to.”

Before the end of the day, participants also received presentations on managing health data in clinical studies and on how digitalisation can improve clinical research.

Below, we have gathered some of the information presented during the seminar. I you want to read more about PMCU, which organised the seminar, you can do so here: Precision Medicine Centre Uppsala

Robin Widing