This is the third in ACTA's Masterclass series for new and emerging CTNs.

This session will focus on what clinicians, researchers and managers need to know about funding mechanisms for CTNs. It will cover principles of funding, and will include practical case studies of funding models used by CTNs.

Hosted by Dr Ayla Barutchu (MAGNET), the session will feature presentations from Jennifer Thompson, Clinical Trials Operations Manager, Australian & New Zealand Urogenital and Prostate (ANZUP) Cancer Trials Group, and Nisha Berthon-Jones, Head of Research Operations, Australasian Gastro-Intestinal Trials Group (AGITG).

Future masterclasses will consider topics such as engaging with industry and consumer involvement in CTNs.

About the presenters

Dr Ayla Barutchu is currently the Executive Officer of Mental Health Australia General Clinical Trials Network (MAGNET), Deakin University. Her research interests are in translational cognitive neuroscience and the discovery of innovative perceptual and cognitive rehabilitation strategies across the lifespan.

Jennifer (Jenn) Thompson holds a Masters in Health Policy and is an experienced leader of research operations, with a career that has spanned industry, university, health care and not-for-profit research settings. She has led the clinical trials project management team at ANZUP since mid-2023, working to ensure ANZUP’s research projects are efficient, with high levels of oversight and adherence to regulatory and governance requirements.

With a background in Medical Science and Business, Nisha Berthon-Jones has extensive experience in managing and improving research operations. At AGITG, Nisha oversees a robust portfolio of clinical trials, engaging with international oncology groups and pharmaceutical and biotech industry, and facilitating the development and implementation of research strategies. She has been instrumental in driving strategic initiatives to enhance treatment and quality of life for patients with GI cancers.