Irish Cancer Society 2026 Research Skills Workshop

The Irish Cancer Society wishes to invite anyone interested in developing their research skills to apply to attend the 2026 Research Skills Workshops at University College Dublin (UCD). This free course will be delivered in person by Dr Emer Guinan and Dr Linda O'Neill. No research experience is required.

A limited number of travel bursaries will be available to support individuals attending this event. Bursaries will be offered on a first come, first served basis and will be considered based on distance from course location (UCD, Dublin 4).

Block 1: Thursday, 5th February and Friday, 6th February 2026.

At the end of the February workshop you should be able to:

• Understand how to develop a research question and project proposal
• Consider the team members needed to build an effective research team
• Explain the importance of embedding public and patient involvement and engagement in a research project
• Consider the funding requirements of your research
• Understand research approval processes and identify research supports when developing a grant application

Block 2: Thursday, 5th March and Friday, 6th March 2026.

At the end of the March workshop you should be able to:

• Design a study protocol
• Navigate the ethical and local approval process for study start-up
• Manage issues such as informed consent, recruitment, retention, randomisation, and fidelity in your study
• Develop an Investigator Site File
• Consider different avenues of demonstrating research impact and research dissemination
• Ensure adherence with mandatory training and data management regulations
• Appreciate the value of embedding health economics, qualitative research and trial methodology research into your work
• Seek opportunities for getting involved in research

This in-person training is free to attend. The course is carried out over two blocks. You may attend both blocks, or just one. In either instance, it is vital to complete all sections of the application form and include a letter of support from your line manager or supervisor. There is no cost to attend.

To secure a place on this course please download and complete the below application form, and email to research@irishcancer.ie alongside a signed letter of support.

Completed applications will be accepted on a first come, first served basis until the course is full. 

Milestones

• Monday 26th January 2026, 3pm: Application Deadline

Please note: The above dates are provisional and subject to change at the discretion of the Irish Cancer Society.