NHS logoClinical Ageing Research Unit (CARU)

Clinical Ageing Research UnitThe Clinical Ageing Research Unit (CARU) is a state of the art clinical research facility on Newcastle University’s Campus for Ageing and Vitality.

Under the directorship of Professor David Burn, the primary aim of CARU is to facilitate the development of early assessment and intervention strategies targeted at age-associated degenerative conditions. The facility is supported by a core grant from the National Institute of Health Research and received funding support from The Wellcome Trust.

Services Offered

Clinical Research Platforms logoThe facility provides a high quality, patient-friendly environment for phase II-IV clinical studies in the older patient. Translational research and clinical trial capacity is facilitated via integration with the NIHR Biomedical Research Centre (Ageing) & Clinical Research Networks (e.g. Dementia and Neurodegenerative Disease Network).

We employ experienced research nurses with specific training in commonly used, relevant assessment instruments. Trials are supported by a high quality research infrastructure, embedded within the joint Acute Trust-University research system, with a study coordinator and data manager located on site.

Newcastle University and Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals Foundation NHS Trust were jointly awarded Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) status by the National Institute for Health Research. The research themes of the BRC are:

  • Dementia and Neurodegenerative Diseases
  • Stroke and Cardiovascular Ageing
  • Musculoskeletal Disease
  • Visual Failure
  • Type 2 Diabetes
  • Liver Disease
  • Mitochondrial Disease

CARU has a key role in delivering studies falling within these research themes. CARU is staffed by a team of experienced and well qualified research nurses and research professionals who are trained to Good Clinical Practice standards.

We provide general support for clinical trials with:

  • our experienced research team including nurses, trials coordinator and data managers
  • costing of research projects and account management Research and development ethics and all other regulatory document completion

Specialist Services:

  • General Clinical Facilities: Consulting and assessment rooms with supporting facilities, including welcoming and relaxing patient reception area; day-case assessment rooms; fully-equipped consulting rooms; minor procedure room; and interview room
  • Human Movement Laboratory - equipped with a 3D motion capture system (Vicon) which incorporates 3 force platforms and a wireless EMG system, digital video and an instrumented walkway (GAITRite)
  • Visual Perception Laboratory – custom-built, state-of-the-art visual perception laboratory
  • DEXA scanner – gold standard for measuring bone density

Further information: