Why are turnover rates so high for site investigators? What can be done to strengthen the investigator community? CTTI’s exploration of this question and resulting recommendations were published this week in the peer-reviewed journal Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications.

CTTI’s work on improving the Investigator Community aimed to better understand why some clinical investigators remain actively engaged in clinical research but others decide to leave it after a single experience. Evidence suggests that many investigators are leaving clinical research due to burdens imposed by trial-related responsibilities—a trend that could hinder the quality and efficiency of clinical trials.

CTTI’s evidence-based recommendations address the challenges faced by site investigators and offer solutions for improving their experience. The recommendations focus on streamlining research infrastructure and staff, clarifying site budget and contract negotiations, optimizing trial execution and conduct, and providing opportunities to conduct additional trials. CROs, sponsors, health systems, investigators, and others can use CTTI’s work to create a research environment that sustains long-term engagement, and fosters improved quality and efficiency in clinical trials.