Clinical Trials Office
The University of Alberta's Clinical Trials Office (CTO) serves as the secretariat for University of Alberta Clinical Trials (UACT), dedicated to advancing health outcomes through innovative and inclusive clinical research. Emphasizing collaboration and the meaningful inclusion of historically excluded populations, the CTO supports a diverse range of clinical trials with a focus on reliability, adaptability, efficiency, and innovation.
Key Initiatives and Units
- Indigenous Clinical Trials Unit (ICTU): As the first of its kind in Canada, the ICTU empowers Indigenous-led clinical research, addressing the unique health needs of Indigenous communities and promoting sovereignty and self-determination in health research.
- Digital Health Unit: This unit focuses on integrating digital technologies into clinical trials, enhancing data collection, patient engagement, and overall trial efficiency.
- Decolonization, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DDEI): The CTO is committed to rectifying historical inequities in clinical research by ensuring that trials are conducted with fairness, dignity, and respect for all communities, including Indigenous, racialized, 2SLGBTQIA+ populations, and individuals with disabilities.
Services and Resources
The CTO offers a comprehensive range of services to support investigators, sponsors, and the community, including:
- Tools & Templates: Standardized resources to facilitate the design and implementation of clinical trials.
- Training: Educational opportunities aimed at enhancing the skills and knowledge of research personnel.
- Monitoring: Oversight services to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and best practices.
- Research & Innovation: Support for novel methodologies and approaches in clinical research.
Engagement and Events
The CTO actively participates in events like International Clinical Trials Day on May 20th, commemorating the inception of clinical trials by James Lind in 1747. Additionally, the office supports initiatives such as the Inclusive Health Conference, promoting LGBTQ+ issues in healthcare and medical education.
More Information
Visit the Clinical Trials Office website for more detailed information and updates.