“I’m Humberto. I work as a Senior Agile Research Delivery Team Nurse for the NIHR South West Peninsula Regional Research Delivery Network (SWP RRDN), and I’m currently doing my MSc in Leading Clinical Research Delivery at the University of Exeter.
I specifically chose Exeter because the course is built for people already in the trenches of research delivery who want to step up into leadership. I was looking for something that would help me look past the day-to-day operational side and really get to grips with study design, governance, and the wider system. Plus, being able to study online while working full-time was a huge selling point.
What I’ve loved most is how relevant the coursework is. Instead of just learning dry concepts, I’ve been able to apply them directly to my real-world projects. Modules like Research Experience and Advanced Research Practice Experience actually pushed me out of my usual bubble. I got involved in feasibility assessments, research costing, and strategic planning—things that happen long before a study actually reaches the delivery phase.
It’s also let me make a tangible impact at work. During my studies, I helped develop systems to track GP practice engagement to improve primary care research delivery. Linking my academic work to actual service improvement has easily been one of the most rewarding parts of the programme.
I won’t lie, balancing a full-time job, family life, and a master’s degree is tough. There were definitely times when work was incredibly busy right as assignments were due, which took a lot of discipline to manage. But the online flexibility saved me, and the support from the tutors and my cohort was fantastic.
Actually, one of the biggest surprises was how connected I felt to everyone. Even though it’s a remote course, the tutorials and group chats helped me build real relationships with research professionals all over the UK. Hearing their different perspectives was a massive bonus.
As I head into my final year, I can already see a huge shift in my career. I’m much more confident jumping into high-level discussions about governance or research strategy. I’m no longer just thinking about delivering research; I’m thinking about how it’s designed and managed from the ground up.”
