Research Beyond Boundaries: Navigating clinical research in the NHS

Join this informal network café for an opportunity to come together with colleagues who have expertise in navigating clinical research in the NHS, to share learning and explore how our collaborations may support research across our health care settings, from the first idea through to study delivery.

Hear directly from clinicians and investigators about their experiences, explore the support available in the NHS and the wider NIHR Research Delivery Network.

Connect with peers and system partners to support your own research journey.

About this session

This network café is hosted by the Kingston and Richmond NHS Foundation Trust (KRFT) Research Department, in collaboration with system partners and leaders in clinical research.

The session is organised by Kat Brown, Associate Director of Research at KRFT, and Dr Andrea Forero Ozer, Clinical Research Fellow at KRFT. Together, they have designed a welcoming and practical space for clinicians, researchers, academics, and NHS staff to learn, share experiences, and collaborate.
What to expect:

• Informal café style networking session - to connect with colleagues and system partners to share ideas
• Practical insights – Learn about developing research ideas, navigating funding applications, and understanding local NHS R&D processes.
• Collaboration opportunities – Explore how partnerships across the NHS, academia, and communities can strengthen research in all healthcare settings.
• Space to explore – how research can be promoted and embedded in wider care settings for future collaborations.

This session is open to anyone interested in NHS research, whether you are already involved in a study, considering your first project, or simply want to understand more about the process.

Meet the organisers

Kat Brown has been leading research in the local NHS for over a decade. With a background as a Biomedical Scientist and a Master’s degree in Medical Diagnostics and Molecular Medicine, she brings over 20 years of experience across the full translational research pathway, from laboratory to community. As Co-Community Settings Lead for the South London Regional Research Delivery Network, Kat is a passionate advocate for inclusive, high-quality research that reaches beyond traditional boundaries. She actively supports research capacity building, governance, and collaboration to ensure research benefits diverse populations.

Dr Andrea Forero Ozer is a medically trained researcher with a strong background in clinical practice and health systems research. She leads and supports clinical studies within the NHS across various therapeutic areas, including both commercial and non-commercial trials. Her experience also includes working with industry partners and stakeholders across Europe and America, contributing to projects that connect clinical care with innovation. At KRFT, she helps clinicians develop locally led research, navigate funding applications, and turning ideas into impactful studies that enhance patient care.

Session Themes

Please note there will be flexibility in the agenda to allow for discussion, questions, and emerging areas of interest.

• Welcome and afternoon overview
• Local NHS R&D support and wider care settings
• Funding applications – A mixed perspective
• Informal networking
• Expert panel: Partnerships and collaboration
• NIHR Research Delivery Network: Updates and what’s new - The National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Research Delivery Network (RDN) enables the health and care system to attract, optimise and deliver research across England
• Leadership in research
• Reflections and building on the conversations

About South West London Research Support Network

The South West London (SWL) Research Support Network, established by the NHS South West London Integrated Care System, is a collaborative initiative to empower local communities and voluntary organisations to conduct their own research.

Through a series of relaxed network meetings, members can engage in mutual learning opportunities with a diverse group of researchers and community members. This informal setting encourages open dialogue and the sharing of ideas, making it easier to change insights into various research methodologies and best practices.

In addition to exchanging knowledge with experienced community members and researchers, members will also have the chance to network with peers, which can lead to the formation of collaborative relationships and partnerships that leverage the strengths and expertise of all involved.

Find out more on the South West London Research Support Network page.

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