Unit Overview and Highlights
The Clinical Research Unit (CRU) at VCHRI provides infrastructure and operational support for clinical research across multiple health disciplines. Located at Vancouver General Hospital, CRU enables investigators and industry partners to conduct clinical trials within a centralized environment.
With dedicated research coordinators, nurses and assistants, CRU supports every stage of trial delivery — from study start-up and participant visits to laboratory services and biospecimen collection. CRU partners with 30 clinical divisions across VCH and UBC, providing access to diverse patient populations and expertise across a broad range of therapeutic areas.
Experienced nurses, project assistants and research coordinators
Integrated laboratory and biobanking services
Efficient study start-up and trial coordination
Access to diverse patient populations across VCH
Supporting Clinical Research Across Health Areas
Cancer and Blood Disorders
Brain and Mental Health
Kidney and Vascular Health
Respiratory and Critical Care
Endocrine and Metabolic Health
Gastrointestinal and Liver Health
Vision and Eye Health
Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Infrastructure and Capabilities
Our Team
The CRU team brings together experienced research coordinators, nurses, assistants and medical lab assistants who work closely with investigators, clinical teams and sponsors to deliver high-quality clinical trials.
From study activation and regulatory coordination to participant visits and protocol implementation, CRU provides dedicated operational expertise throughout the clinical trial lifecycle. The team collaborates with clinical divisions across VCH and UBC to create a trusted environment for advancing discovery.
Facilities and Capacity
CRU provides clinical research space and infrastructure designed to enable efficient trial delivery. Located within the Gordon and Leslie Diamond Health Care Centre at Vancouver General Hospital, CRU supports participant visits, product management, laboratory services and biospecimen activities.
Research facilities and infrastructure includes:
- Secure investigational product storage and accountability systems
- Laboratory processing and shipment capabilities
- Temperature-controlled centrifuges and laboratory equipment
- Sample collection and protocol-specific procedures
Quality and Ethics
VCH is committed to conducting high-quality, ethical and efficient clinical research. CRU operates in accordance with the Tri-Council Policy Statement (TCPS2), International Council for Harmonisation Good Clinical Practice (ICH-GCP) guidelines and Health Canada regulatory requirements.
CRU supports investigators and sponsors through standardized processes, experienced research staff and a commitment to participant safety, research integrity and regulatory excellence throughout the clinical trial lifecycle
Testimonials
We have been working with CRU for over 10 years. They are the go-to for all things research! The team can conduct a participant visit, draw blood, collect vitals, process and ship the samples, and provide moral support when the study is challenging.
Patients are fortunate to have this team supporting their journey, and clinicians and researchers like myself could not do this work without them. The ABK and Vertex studies would not have been possible without the support of CRU, and it has been one of my greatest honours to work alongside them.
Research Pathways
Looking to Conduct a Trial?
CRU partners with investigators across VCH and UBC to support every stage of clinical trial delivery. Our team provides clinical, operational and regulatory support to help move your research forward, whether you're launching an investigator-initiated study or leading a multicentre sponsored trial.
Looking to Start Your Project?
Whether you're planning your first study or expanding an existing research program, CRU provides the infrastructure and expertise to support successful trial delivery at VCH. With centralized services, experienced research staff, regulatory support and access to diverse patient populations, we help streamline your trial delivery while maintaining the highest standards of quality and participant safety.
Looking to Participate in Research?
Clinical research helps improve health care by evaluating new treatments, therapies and approaches to care. By participating in a research study, you can contribute to discoveries that may improve outcomes for future patients while receiving support within carefully monitored research protocols.