SPINAL RESEARCH www.spinal-research.org
Spinal Research is the UK's leading charity funding medical research around the world to develop reliable treatments for paralysis caused by a broken back or neck. We are committed to funding the highest quality international research into a cure for spinal cord paralysis. We support both basic science and clinical research and aim to increase research capacity by encouraging talented young graduates into the field through our PhD studentships. Research may be centred at the bench but to be productive requires collaboration and a healthy exchange of ideas. We continually encourage international cooperation of effort and as a founding member of the ICCP (International Campaign for Cures of spinal cord injury Paralysis) we have been instrumental in bringing essential guidelines on the conduct of safe and effective clinical trials for spinal cord injury.
The Trust boasts an internationally-recognised Scientific Committee who guide our scientific strategy and preside over a peer-review process that ensures awards are made only to the highest quality research projects. Spinal Research recognises that for complex multisystem diseases and pathologies, such as spinal cord injury, it is sometimes necessary to use animals as part of the overall research endeavour. Spinal Research is aware of the responsibility that this places on it to ensure, whenever possible, alternatives to the use of animals are explored. All laboratories must hold a certificate issued by the Home Office and have gained approval for their work from a local ethical and animal welfare committee before any work involving the use of animals is permitted.
THE UK SCI RESEARCH NETWORK: www.spinalresearchnetwork.org
The UK Spinal Injury Research Network (UKSCIRN) was launched in March 2003 to promote and encourage multi-centre clinical research and so improve the health care and well being of all patients with spinal injuries. SCIRN was originally funded from the Priorities and Needs framework and is now funded through the Thames Valley Comprehensive Research Network. Funding for research projects is supported through our own funding and partner charity organisations. Projects are advertised through the UKSCIRN and NHS websites including RDInfo and direct contact with professional groups. Submissions are peer reviewed by the UKSCIRN scientific committee.
SPINAL CORD JOURNAL
Spinal Cord is the official journal of the International Spinal Cord Society (ISCoS). It provides complete coverage of all aspects of spinal injury and disease within its articles and is a comprehensive source for current research articles. You can access the current and archived editions of Spinal Cord at: www.nature.com/sc