MRC Clinical Trials Unit at UCL to become the UCL Innovative Clinical Trials Unit from April 2026
16 Feb 2026
From April 2026, the MRC Clinical Trials Unit will become the UCL Innovative Clinical Trials Unit.
The MRC Clinical Trials Unit has received underpinning funding from the MRC since 1998. This has allowed the Unit to carry out innovative and challenging trials, meta-analyses and methodology research that have had a global impact. This funding will end in March 2026, due to changes in the MRC's funding approach. Preparing for this funding cut has been challenging. However, we will remain one of the largest clinical trials units in the UK and will maintain our wide portfolio of activity.
The MRC Clinical Trials Unit at UCL has always been defined by its dedication to impactful research, innovation, its culture of collaboration and mentorship, and its commitment to improving global health. The Innovative Clinical Trials Unit is committed to continuing to fulfil the mission of smarter studies and global impact, leading to better health. We will continue to successfully deliver new and ongoing studies, collaborating with partners around the world. The Innovative Clinical Trials Unit will be led by Professor Angela Meade, an experienced clinical trialist recognised for her strategic leadership and commitment to advancing collaborative research.
Professor Mahesh (Max) Parmar, the current Director of the MRC Clinical Trials Unit at UCL, will remain Director of the Institute of Clinical Trials and Methodology at UCL. Also, he is the Director of the new MRC funded Centre of Research Excellence in Clinical Trial Innovation, which opened in February 2026, supported by Professors James Carpenter, Ruth Langley and Ian White as Deputy Directors. The Innovative Clinical Trials Unit will capitalise on the existing close links and common staff with the Centre of Research Excellence in Clinical Trial Innovation to drive forward its mission.
The Innovative Clinical Trials Unit will remain part of the Institute of Clinical Trials and Methodology at UCL. Sponsorship of Unit studies will remain unchanged. Our new name, branding and web address will launch in April 2026.
Further information: