Red4Research 2026: Celebrating the people powering UK clinical trials

On Friday 19 June, the clinical research community across the UK came together to support the annual #Red4Research campaign. It was a humbling day that put a vibrant spotlight on the sheer scale of pride, dedication, and collaborative unity that is driving our clinical trials ecosystem further and faster.

Across the sector, partners, NHS trusts, and research institutions painted the day red. From frontline teams and research coordinating centre staff dressing up, to facilities and reception areas being lit up in red, the collective impact mirrored the inspiring stories shared across our networks. The day provided an opportunity to recognise every individual who plays a part, from the patients volunteering for trials to the administrative, pharmacy, laboratory, and clinical teams working behind the scenes.

This national campaign demonstrates that the UK’s reputation as a premier destination for life sciences investment is built on a foundation of deeply committed people. Research doesn’t just happen; our people make it happen!

Read some of the fantastic highlights from across the UKCRD network:

• Professor Lucy Chappell thanked everyone who’s been involved in making NIHR research a reality over the last 20 years – See Lucy’s LinkedIn post.
• The HSC R&D division Northern Ireland highlighted the progress made through local health and social care research in their dedicated news story Read the news story.
• The NIHR wore red to celebrate everyone who makes health and care research possible – See their Facebook post.
• NHS Research Scotland raised awareness of the country’s extensive research capabilities and celebrate the participants at the heart of their studies. Read the news story.
• The NIHR Research Support Service released a video introducing colleagues and showcasing how the RSS supports researchers at every stage of their journey. Watch their video.
• Health and Care Research Wales celebrated Red4Research 2026, with red dragons roaring across Wales in recognition of the people who make research happen. Read the news story.
• NIHR UCLH BRC marked the occasion with UCL’s iconic portico lit up in red, celebrating a record-breaking year for patient recruitment into breakthrough experimental and first-in-human trials. Read the news story.
• HSC R&D and Health Protection Teams in Northern Ireland came together for Red4Research to show their appreciation to everyone who is involved in research. Read their X post.
• EMERGE Research – NHS Lothian shared their gratitude on LinkedIn, thanking clinical teams for their continued, vital support of emergency medicine research. See the LinkedIn post.