"We know the difference research can make"
Anjum Misbahuddin is looking forward to bringing her passion for the subject to bear as she takes up her role as Interim Clinical Director for Research at Barking, Havering and Redbridge University Hospitals NHS Trust.
Dr Misbahuddin, a consultant neurologist and clinical lead for neurology at the trust, has long been research-active and a leading figure in a number of clinical trials, encompassing roles including Principal Investigator. Her research interests include movement disorders such as Parkinson's and dystonia, a condition which causes uncontrolled and sometimes painful muscle movements (spasms).
But now, she is focussed on expanding the research offering at the trust.
She explained: “I want the trust to really invest in research, but not just financially. We have seen the impact research has had over the last year or so, and the difference it can make. I was very involved in delivering the RECOVERY trial here as Co-Principal Investigator, and I remember the good feeling everyone had when it was shown that dexamethasone could be effective against coronavirus and the fact that we played our small part in that discovery.
“I really want to harness that feeling as we take research forward.”
Dr Misbahuddin is busy getting to grips with the various governance procedures surrounding research and, as she says, immersing herself in its finer points.
“There is so much detail,” she said. “I feel as though I am really on the shop floor learning about it all.
“Research has always been a part of my career, going back to when I was a PhD student, but this is different. I am also learning about our relationship with the CRN.
“I want to get more people involved in research and motivate the next generation of Chief Investigators and Principal Investigators here. Research is the basis for everything we do and that is why it is so important. It is fun as well!”
