The International Clinical Trials Methodology Conference (ICTMC) takes place bi-annually, with the most recent event taking place in October 2024 in Edinburgh. The conference covers a wide range of trial methodology research and is a great opportunity for trial management professionals to attend, showcase their methodology research and connect with others.
The UKTMN attend ICTMC as an exhibitor, providing a great opportunity to meet our members, and represent trial management professionals across the methodology landscape. We've noticed over the last few years, the number of trial management professionals attending and presenting during the conference has increased. With opportunities to develop, learn and share knowledge, we encourage all trial management professionals to consider attending.
We asked some UKTMN members who attended ICTMC 2024 to tell us about why they attended and what benefit it had to them. Read below to find out more.
Arzish Haqqee, Trial Manager, Imperial Clinical Trials Unit
I had a fantastic experience attending my first ICTMC conference, where I presented a poster on the progress and challenges of the MET-FINGER study - the first randomised controlled trial combining lifestyle changes and metformin for the prevention of cognitive impairment in a fully academic setting. It was a great opportunity to showcase some of the research from our growing portfolio of studies alongside my colleagues at Imperial Clinical Trials Unit. The conference was well-organised with a comprehensive programme including a large variety of parallel sessions which ensured there was something of interest for everyone. There was diverse representation of attendees, insightful Q&A discussions, and networking sessions where I had the chance to meet fellow UKTMN members. It was inspiring to learn about the promising research taking place across a range of therapeutic areas. My three key takeaways from the conference were the importance of inclusivity in clinical trials, efforts towards creating greener trials, and always ensuring that trials are designed with patients and the public in mind. The conference party started off with a dazzling performance by highland dancers and ended with us all engaging in traditional ceilidh dancing and indulging in Scottish cuisine, rounding off a great week in Edinburgh. I’m already looking forward to the next one!
Bethany Whale, Trial Coordinator, Exeter Clinical Trials Unit
I am an early career researcher and ICTMC 2024 was the first conference I attended, and I was pleased to present a poster on the impact of NHS therapist staff identification on site set up times in complex intervention studies. I was motivated to attend not only to meet and learn from other trial managers across the country, but to also network with individuals from other disciplines within clinical trials. I really enjoyed and benefited from attending presentations on a wide range of subject matter. This furthered my understanding of current clinical trial research and lessons learned, and I aim to use the knowledge to advance my own techniques and methods when running a clinical trial.
Hannah Short, Trial Manager, Liverpool Clinical Trials Centre
I was initially concerned that, as a trials methodology conference it might be a bit “stats heavy” and not have enough relevant trial management content. There were a couple of presentations where the title made my head hurt a bit! However, the vast majority of presentations were very engaging and relatable. I was particularly interested in the presentations addressing common challenges that many of us will have faced in our trial management roles e.g. recruitment and retention issues, and the strategies implemented to overcome them. I would definitely recommend this conference to all trial managers!
Laura Bowyer, Study Coordinator, Keele Clinical Trials Unit
I wanted to attend the conference to broaden my understanding of the clinical trials environment. Attending the conference allowed me to take a step back from my day-to-day role so I could consider where I want to develop my own skills and understanding. There were plenty of opportunities for valuable networking with colleagues in similar roles in other institutions. I would recommend attending the conference for your own development and to discover best practices used by other institutions that you can integrate into your own workplace.
Maddie Clout, Trial Portfolio Lead, Bristol Trials Centre
ICTMC was a fantastic opportunity to meet, and reconnect, with trial management professionals from across the country and around the world. It was a fast-paced and hugely varied couple of days. I’m endlessly amazed by the variety of research being undertaken across the country, and was left feeling reinvigorated for a profession which I love being a part of.
Steff Garvin, Trial Manager, Keele Clinical Trials Unit
I wanted to attend ICTMC as I’d not really had any prior experience of submitting an abstract to a conference before. I submitted an abstract which was accepted and I was invited to present my poster. I thought this was a really great opportunity and I got to speak with peers from across the country about our different experiences of trying to initiate and engage PPIE activity. I also attended a lot of the PPIE and Trial Management focused sessions at the conference and this gave me a great insight into what others are doing and I picked up lots of good practice. I also enjoyed the networking event put on by UKTMN and thought this was a really good idea to meet other Trial Management colleagues from across the country.
Tracy Moitt, Senior Trial Manager and Team Leader, Liverpool Clinical Trials Centre
I was given the opportunity to attend the ICTMC in Edinburgh 2024, and I am so pleased I did. It was interesting to see and engage in the different presentations and hear about the successes, but also realise others experience the same challenges. This allowed me to share knowledge and take away information that would help within the trials I work on. I would highly recommend anyone working in trial management to attend as you will go away with more knowledge, tips, and a sense of 'I am not alone in my trial challenges'. It is a great networking opportunity!
