National Framework Agreement for Biomedical and Clinical Research Support
Framework Description
Through F/104, Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust's procurement arm (COCH CPS) offers NHS and other public sector organisations a national route to contract research organisation (CRO) services, biobanking, specialist analysis and research operations support. Its aim is to strengthen buyers' research capacity and innovation potential. The framework is live and runs until 1 October 2028.
Context & Use Case
NHS trusts, academic health science networks and other research-active organisations use F/104 to support both commercial and non-commercial studies. Typical needs include help running clinical trials, storing and managing biospecimens, specialist laboratory analysis and data management. The framework lets research teams bring in expert support without running a separate tender for each study.
Scope of Services
Clinical trial operations and CRO services Biobanking and biospecimen management Specialist laboratory and diagnostic analysis Data management and statistical services Research governance and regulatory support
Lots
See framework link
Who Can Apply
Suits CROs, specialist research laboratories, biobank operators, data management providers and research consultancies. Expect to evidence Good Clinical Practice compliance and research information governance. F/104 is closed to new applications, so firms not already appointed should prepare for the re-tender, likely around 1 October 2028.
Buyer Benefits
NHS research teams often need specialist capacity at short notice to meet study timelines. A national framework gives them quick access to pre-qualified providers with research expertise. Buyers value GCP compliance, a track record in NHS studies, reliable sample handling and clear data governance.
Next Steps
Appointed suppliers should make NHS research and innovation teams aware of their F/104 services, and keep GCP training records, accreditations and information governance policies current for call-offs. Others should prepare for the re-tender ahead of 1 October 2028, building case studies of NHS or academic research support in the meantime.
How Athena Can Help
Research support bids need to show regulatory competence as clearly as scientific expertise. When research teams issue requirements under F/104, Athena's bid content development turns your study record into strong responses, and our NHS research tender support helps you price studies so they stay profitable, including pass-through costs and staffing.
If you are not yet appointed, our framework application support prepares your selection answers, accreditations and governance evidence for the re-tender, with GCP and information governance checked before you submit.
