News & Events

Driving Engagement Among Preclinical Research Investigators

The success of preclinical drug research often hinges upon investigator engagement.

Remaining engaged in preclinical research is often difficult for investigators because they are bombarded with multiple responsibilities. Investigators may also lack the supportive infrastructure needed to prevent delays and foster their enjoyment in the research process. Below is a look at the barriers to investigator engagement in drug research and five ways to eliminate these barriers.

Identifying the Barriers to Investigator Engagement
The majority of preclinical drug investigators are busy physicians or academians who are confronted with a host of daily demands that prevent them from remaining engaged in the research process. A workshop summary by the National Institute of Health points to some of the challenges below as the greatest barriers to research:

  • Conflicting demands. Many investigators are healthcare professionals with many job duties
  • Few financial incentives. Investigators are not financially incentivized to remain engaged 
  • Lack of enjoyment. Reduced enjoyment is a common complaint among overburdened investigators.
  • Poor support. There is often a lack of a sound supportive research infrastructure.
  • Too many complexities. Preclinical research can be overwhelming, especially to young investigators.

A Comprehensive Solution to Preclinical Research Barriers
Clearly, investigators face a mounting array of hurdles that limit their engagement in the research process. Failure to address these barriers can delay preclinical trial progress and negatively affect the quality of research results. Fortunately, many of these roadblocks can be addressed with the help of an industry expert with a commitment to fostering drug discovery. Below is a look at four specific ways to foster preclinical research:

1) Outsource your lab services to a contract research organization (CRO).
Outsourcing is an excellent solution for busy investigators who are overwhelmed by a host of demands. A contract research organization will have the tools and resources required to process your study materials quickly and accurately. Ideally, the CRO you choose should have at least ten years of experience serving biotechnology firms and drug discovery companies.

2) Consider a mobile platform that allows busy investigators to access data on the go.
Investigators who manage multiple preclinical research studies are often overwhelmed by conflicting responsibilities. With a fully mobile platform, investigators can use tend to their work using their favorite mobile devices. They can also quickly access study data during lunchtime, office hours, or at their convenience. Mobile technology solutions enable investigators to effortlessly communicate with colleagues at remote institutions across the globe.

3) Encourage participation in online study-specific communities. 
Dedicated online forums provide an excellent medium through which investigators can discuss results, share ideas, and remain connected with one another. Additionally, sharing preclinical research data between institutions can prevent duplicate research and foster new discoveries

4) Have a courier pick up your study materials.
Some companies have couriers who will travel to your facility to retrieve your study materials and take them offsite for professional processing. After processing is complete, the courier returns the materials to your facility along with a report of study results. This step allows you and your employees to focus on developing the next preclinical research study.

Choosing a Leader in Preclinical Research Outsourcing
The best way to ensure that you optimize your drug discovery efforts is to seek the support of a leading contract research organization (CRO). By enlisting the services of a CRO that is dedicated to drug discovery, you can overcome barriers to investigator engagement and improve research results. With over a decade of experience in the preclinical drug research industry, the experts at HSRL are ready to work with your organization to discover groundbreaking drugs.

Please contact us to learn how we can help you improve your preclinical drug research today.   

HSRL Specializes in Histopathology & Specimen Storage Services

 

Back to Index

Upcoming Events

SOT

Date: March 10-14
Location: Salt Lake City, Utah
Stop by our booth #717 and attend our sessions:

  • Immunotoxicity II Poster Session,
    March 12 from 11:45am - 1:45pm
  • Informational Session:
    “Through the Lens: Translational Insights in Ocular Toxicology” on Wednesday, March 13, 2024 from 11:00am–12:20pm

Popular Posts

Learn more about StageBio’s COVID-19 response