From Idea to Action: Developing a Study Protocol
Session overview
A study protocol serves as the foundation for a successful research project. A well-designed protocol defines the research objectives, hypotheses and scope, preventing ambiguity and ensuring the study outcomes address the research question. Taking the time to develop a sound and considered protocol enhances rigor and reliability, increasing the validity of results. It is critical to guide resource management and to reduce the risk of errors and/or bias. High-quality protocols are also required to secure research funding and publish results in peer-reviewed journals.
This presentation will cover key elements such as defining research objectives, designing a robust methodology, ensuring ethical compliance, and addressing practical considerations like timelines and resources. Participants will gain a clear understanding of how to create a protocol that serves as a blueprint for conducting rigorous, reproducible, and impactful research. Whether you’re new to research or looking to refine your approach, this session will equip you with the tools to turn your ideas into a structured and actionable plan.
DATE
Wednesday 14th May 2025, 3:00pm-4:00pm
Location
Microsoft Teams - Once you have registered the meeting link will be provided in the confirmation email and calender invitation.
About the Presenter

Dr Shantel Duffy is an Accredited Exercise Physiologist and the Research Governance and Development Manager for Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District (NBMLHD). Before joining NBMLHD in 2021, Shantel was an NHMRC-ARC Dementia Research Fellow and the Deputy Director of the Healthy Brain Ageing Program at the Brain and Mind Centre, the University of Sydney. In her previous and current roles, she has led the development and successful completion of multiple research studies that have used a range of methodologies, from qualitative studies to clinical trials. To-date, Shantel has published over 50 articles in peer reviewed journals and has attracted >$1.8 million in competitive research funding. She now oversees ethics and governance processes at NBMLHD, combining a practical understanding research design and development with clinical and health service experience.
Who are the Rural Research Collaborative Learning Network (RR-CLaN)?
The RR-CLaN is a rural led initiative that aims to provide high-quality research education and training to healthcare staff working in rural, regional and remote areas. Our aim is to provide you with the education and training opportunities to build key skills in how to use and undertake research to improve healthcare delivery.
RR-CLaN collaborators:
NSW: Central Coast Local Health District; Far West Local Health District; Hunter New England Local Health District; Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District; Mid North Coast Local Health District; Murrumbidgee Local Health District; Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District; Northern New South Wales Local Health District; Southern New South Wales Local Health District; Western New South Wales Local Health District; Health Education and Training Institute (HETI).
QLD: Tropical Australian Academic Health Centre (supporting Townsville Hospital and Health Service; Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service; Mackay Hospital and Health Service; North West Hospital and Health Service; Torres and Cape Hospital and Health Service); Darling Downs Health Innovation and Research Collaborative; Darling Downs, South West Hospital and Wide Bay Hospital and Health Service.