The beating heart of medical innovation: Inside the Clinical Research Facility

“Medicine must work for everyone—and that starts with inclusive research.” Professor Dan Forton, CRF Director & Hepatology Consultant

At the centre of groundbreaking healthcare innovation in South London lies the Clinical Research Facility (CRF) at St George’s Hospital — a place where science meets compassion, and research becomes hope. Co-directed by Professor Daniel Forton, Hepatology Consultant, the CRF is not just a clinical unit; it’s a vital hub where pioneering treatments are born, tested, and refined to serve real people in real communities.

“We are the hub for clinical research here at St George’s,” says Professor Forton, standing proudly at the forefront of the CRF. The facility plays a crucial role in shaping the future of medicine by conducting both early and late-phase clinical trials. From testing brand new treatments for the very first time in humans to confirming the effectiveness of proven medications, the CRF is a powerhouse of medical discovery.

Early phase trials, Professor Forton explains, are among the most intricate and demanding. “It’s often very complex and requires a lot of skillful staff, time and care,” he says. These trials are essential for pushing the boundaries of medical knowledge — often laying the groundwork for new standards of care.

Clinical research is not conducted in isolation. It is, at its core, a partnership between scientists, clinicians, and patients. “By clinical research, I mean research in patients and for patients,” Professor Forton explains. This patient-centred approach ensures that trials are not only scientifically rigorous but also rooted in real-world needs.

Importantly, the CRF is committed to ensuring that research reflects the diversity of the communities it serves and for our patients across the Trust. “It’s really important that medicines work for all our people,” says Professor Forton. “We really want to involve everybody.” Inclusivity isn’t just a value — it’s a scientific necessity for developing effective, equitable treatments.

Located on the ground floor of the Jenner Wing — just a short walk from Pret a Manger — the CRF welcomes curiosity. Whether you’re a patient, staff, a caregiver, or someone interested in how medicine evolves, you’re invited to stop by. “There will always be somebody to show you around,” Professor Forton encourages.

Why it matters

In an era where healthcare is evolving faster than ever, places like our Clinical Research Facility serve as bridges between scientific potential and everyday care. Through clinical trials and inclusive engagement, Professor Forton and his team ensure that the benefits of medical breakthroughs are not just imagined but realised — for everyone.

So next time you pass through St George’s, remember: just beyond the hospital corridors, in the CRF, the future of medicine is quietly, diligently taking shape.

Checkout the CRF's X page for more info on research and clinical trials we're conducting.