The remote geography of the region makes ARI a unique and strategic centre for clinical research. The hospital has developed innovative approaches to improve patient access to services, including:

• An on-site patient hotel to support those travelling long distances.
• Strong partnerships with local cancer charities that assist patients during treatment.
• Collaboration with general practitioner (GP) hubs to deliver services closer to home.
• A welcoming approach to patient referrals for clinical trials, including advanced therapies.

ARI’s Research & Development department supports a diverse portfolio of over 300 clinical trials across multiple therapy areas. The research infrastructure includes:

• A team of 80 research nurses, data managers, healthcare support workers, and laboratory technicians.
• A dedicated Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMP) research nurse specifically supporting advanced therapy trials.

All essential hospital services for clinical trial delivery are co-located on the ARI site, including:

• Clinical Trials Pharmacy.
• Apheresis Unit.
• Sample Processing Laboratory.
• Imaging Facilities.
• Pathology and Cardiology Departments.

ARI is JACIE (Joint Accreditation Committee of ISCT & EBMT) certified and has an active biosafety committee for ATMP trial review. The hospital also has a dedicated chimeric antigen receptor- T (CAR-T) cells team with close links to ICU, ensuring readiness for complex advanced therapy trials.

Collaborative research is a key strength at ARI, with strong links to the University of Aberdeen and partnerships with other ATMP centres across Scotland.