The first member of the Institute of Clinical Research (ICR) to achieve Chartered Scientist status was recognised at the UK-based institute’s annual spring conference and exhibition in Birmingham this week.
Fiona Graham, an academic research co-ordinator in research and development at Glasgow Royal Infirmary, was presented with a certificate for attaining the new status introduced by the ICR late last year after it was accepted as a licensed body of the Science Council.
The ICR offers a range of membership levels, from Affiliate or Registered Member through to Fellow, depending on academic qualifications and relevant experience. To qualify as a Chartered Scientist, candidates need to be a practising Professional Member or Fellow of ICR, have an MSc or higher degree, and be registered on a recognised continuing professional development scheme.
As ICR director Susan Ollier noted in her opening address to the spring conference, the Institute has been putting increasing emphasis on qualifications, training and e-learning of late. For example, the ICR is offering an MSc in Clinical Research in association with Cranfield University and has training partnerships with the Institute of Clinical Research (India), including a global PG (Postgraduate) Diploma in Clinical Research.
