Standard operating procedures (SOPs) must be in place prior to recruitment of the first participant.
They should cover the range of activities involved in the research and ensure that practice is standard, regardless of who is carrying out the activity.
All research staff must be trained in the activities for which they are responsible and a clear concise SOP will guide anyone unused to that particular procedure.
Where they exist, University core SOPs should be used for all clinical trials sponsored by the University, and for clinical research where appropriate.
Other template SOPs can be adapted by individual investigators or departments. Staff in the Research Governance, Ethics & Assurance Team will be able to identify which SOPs are required for your study.