Become a PI

The Principal Investigator (PI) is the person delegated responsible for the conduct of a research study at a research site (Trust). There should be one PI for each research site. In the case of a single-site study, the Chief Investigator (CI) and the PI will normally be the same person. The PI will ensure that the study is conducted in accordance with the protocol, GCP and other relevant legislation.

The responsibilities of the PI will be clearly delegated in signed agreements between the host site and the sponsor. The PI may delegate responsibilities to other members of the study team, where appropriate, but must be involved in the active management of the study and should be able to demonstrate complete oversight at their site.  

The PI could be a medic, nurse or allied health professional – whoever is most suitable for the role.

Please contact research@nottshc.nhs.uk if you are interested in finding out more information about becoming a PI.

The Associate Principal Investigator Scheme aims to develop health and care professionals to become the Principal Investigators (PIs) of the future. The healthcare professional will experience what it means to work on and deliver an NIHR portfolio study under the mentorship of a Local PI. The commitment is for an average of 2 hours per week for six months (funding is not available for backfill).

The Associate PI Scheme is aimed at Clinical staff who wish to gain skills and experience in participating in NIHR Portfolio research and to provide them with formal recognition of the contribution they have made over and above the standard expectations of their role. Staff whose core role already includes research (such as Research Nurses) are ineligible to apply for this scheme as they are unlikely to benefit. More information on the Associate PI Scheme is available on the NIHR website.

PI Essentials online training is available through the NIHR via the East Midlands CRN. It is only available for staff in the East Midlands.

The Online Delivery session has been developed for staff new to the role of PI. The session includes the following learning outcomes:

• Understand the PI’s responsibilities in leading the conduct of a study at a site 
• Recognise what makes an effective PI and the importance of effective leadership in study identification, set-up, recruitment, and conduct 
• Understand and reflect on the skills and behaviours required to be an effective PI 
• Know how to access help and support

You will need to enrol at learn.nihr.ac.uk. For further information please contact crnemlearn@nihr.ac.uk.