The CRDO is a Bi-Institutional Office comprising clinical research management staff from National University of Galway and Saolta University Healthcare Group (SUHG). The Saolta University Health Care Group / National University of Ireland Galway Clinical Research Governance and Support Framework was signed by the Saolta CEO and University of Galway Údarás na hOllscoile in July 2020 and as an output from this framework, the Clinical Research Governance & Oversight Board and Clinical Research & Development Office were established.

The CRDO has been tasked with providing the integrated structures and processes necessary to deliver:

  1. Institutional Oversight & Approval
  2. Support for researchers and research activity                                                                      
  3. Promotion and dissemination of research outputs

A primary objective for the CRDO is to provide governance for clinical research involving patients, their data or samples, the staff and /or infrastructure of Saolta and NUI Galway and any co-governed Clinical research units, including the HRB-CRFG, and of regulated and non-regulated trials sponsored by University of Galway.

The creation of the CRDO is timely as it addresses both national and local initiatives and recommendations. It is aligned with the Health Research Governance Framework of the Research and Development function of the HSE and reflects the 2019 Corporate Enabling of Clinical Research (CECR) initiative to identify and address the challenges faced by academic institutions sponsoring clinical research studies in the areas of governance, regulations and support.                                                 

The CRDO intends to deliver this robust governance & support function for clinical research activities through the provision of a system of clinical research registration, risk assessment & approval, a quality management function, a financial management system for clinical research activities, and a streamlined process for the management of contracts. With this level of guidance and support, the CRDO anticipates the benefits will be improved research regulatory compliance, increased integration of research into the health service delivery, strengthened research networks, increased funding opportunities and improved research capacity across both institutions.                                            

Our Vision

The Vision of the CRDO is to deliver an integrated clinical research network encompassing Saolta University Hospitals Group & University of Galway. We will create an environment where clinical research is valued and researchers feel supported, whilst also ensuring robust governance structures and processes are in place to support safe, quality, and innovative research.

Our Mission

The Mission of the CRDO is to provide advice, guidance and support for Clinical Research taking place within the Saolta University Hospitals Group, and sponsored by University of Galway, and to ensure compliance, governance and oversight.  The office will provide the integrated structures and processes necessary to conduct and promote best practice Clinical Research.

Our Values

  • Integrity & Respect: We value openness, honesty and diversity. We trust each other and do the right thing. 
  • Accountability: We do what we say we will – proactively manage risk, overcome barriers, take responsibility for decisions and mistakes, and meet our commitments. 
  • Excellence: We continually improve through listening, learning and innovation.   We work as one team and aim to deliver to the highest professional standards.  We take pride in our work, and always strive to be innovative, adaptive and flexible.
  • Teamwork & Collaboration: We value teamwork and work collaboratively to maximise our collective strength. We are approachable, helpful and strive to build collaborative relationships with our stakeholders and service users.