Research is fundamental to the current and future success of PathWest, underpinning evidence-based practice and positively contributing to continuous improvements in benchtop to bedside care.

Throughout 2020/21, an extensive volume of research was undertaken by PathWest, both as primary and secondary researchers, as well as supporting multiple hospital research projects with the provision of diagnostic information.

PathWest’s involvement in research activities also provides opportunities for its workforce, encourages and improves collaborations - linking clinicians and surgeons from Health Service Providers, interstate and local university students and interstate academics with pathologists and scientists across all disciplines.

Research in numbers

During 2020/21, PathWest staff were:

• Involved in more than 359 active clinical research projects supported by the FSH Network Clinical Trials Management Unit.
• Involved in approximately 220 active research projects supported by the QEII Clinical Trials Management Unit.

PathWest has:

• 204 PathWest projects in RGS
• 81 PathWest research projects submitted for review
• Involvement in 14 COVID-19 research projects.

The future of research at PathWest

To further enhance research opportunities at PathWest, Chief Pathologist and Clinical Professor Miles Beaman has developed a three-phase development plan for future research activities.

The first phase is set to commence in January 2022 and involves the creation of two dedicated research sessions a week per discipline for early career staff under supervision of a senior departmental member participating in a defined project, likely to be completed within one to two years.

Successful applicants will be provided with a $10,000 stipend for consumables or staff, and required to deliver an annual report, including any publications arising.

A PathWest Research Advisory Group is also planned, with nominees from each discipline who will meet regularly to receive and assess applications. This group will also assist in the development of phase two and phase three, which will see mid-career and senior staff respectively be awarded grants for research projects and programs. They will also be responsible for assisting the development of future strategic directions for PathWest research.

An investment in research is seen as an investment in the future of PathWest.