Impact of COVID-19: Researcher information.

28/05/2020

CSO has published a statement on restarting research paused due to the COVID-19 pandemic https://www.cso.scot.nhs.uk/news/ 

This refers to the NIHR Restart Framework https://www.nihr.ac.uk/documents/restart-framework/24886 

The framework outlines guiding principles for a coordinated restoration of the health and care research portfolio. Scotland and the other devolved administrations have been fully involved in its development and are supportive of the guiding principles and prioritisation criteria. We should note that the NIHR Restart Framework provides guiding principles and not directive local operational instruction. 

On May 21^st the Scottish Government published the Coronavirus (COVID-19): framework for decision making – Scotland’s route map through and out of the crisis

This route map takes an evidence-led and transparent approach to easing restrictions and sets out a phased approach towards the future. We wish to stress that the Restart Framework does not in any way supersede the SG guidance around non-essential on-campus University lab work contained within the Coronavirus (COVID-19): framework for decision making document. Non-essential, on-campus University lab work should not restart until SG has issued further specific guidance to do so subject to physical distancing as part of the staged implementation of the route map.

18/05/2020

A new online booking service will be rolled out for IRAS studies on Tuesday 19 May – replacing the current Central Booking Service (CBS) telephone line. This is part of our ongoing Research Systems programme of work to improve our services for applicants.

Applicants submitting research projects through IRAS will no longer need to call the Central Booking Service to book a Research Ethics Committee, or to enable IRAS Form submission. Instead applicants will access the new online booking service via IRAS to book their application for review. The service is quick and easy to use and, unlike the current Central Booking Service, will be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, making it easier for research applicants. If you need help and support with the new system you can call 0207 104 8008 between 8.30am and 4.30pm Monday to Friday.      

In order to make use of this new functionality, applicants will be directed to a new part of IRAS which hosts the online booking service. A separate login will be required, but support will be provided. You will need to set up a new login and password for this area unless you already have a login for a NIHR system or as part of the Combined Ways of Working pilot (CWoW) pilot. In this case you can use your existing log in details. 

Applicants will need to answer a series of questions online before being able to book a slot. This directs the applicant to the appropriate REC. The questions will be familiar to anyone who has used the CBS. Once you have completed your online REC booking, you will still need to electronically submit your application in IRAS using the normal process.

12/05/2020

IRAS

Online booking service for IRAS submissions

04/05/2020

Archived News

April 2020 

March 2020