STP Research, Development & Innovation 5

Question 1

A laboratory scientist wants to assess reproducibility of a new assay by having multiple analysts run the same samples on different days. Which component of analytical validation does this evaluate?

Accepted Answer

Between-run (intermediate) imprecision

Answer

Between-run or intermediate imprecision measures variability across different analysts, days, or instruments, reflecting real-world reproducibility.

Question 2

Under the Declaration of Helsinki, what is required when potentially vulnerable individuals are enrolled in research?

Accepted Answer

They may only be enrolled if the research addresses the health needs of their group and cannot be done in a non-vulnerable population

Answer

Helsinki paragraph 20 states vulnerable populations should only be included when the research responds to their needs and cannot be done otherwise.

Question 3

In health technology assessment (HTA), the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) is compared against a willingness-to-pay threshold. In England, what is NICE's general threshold range per QALY gained?

Accepted Answer

£20,000–£30,000 per QALY

Answer

NICE generally considers technologies cost-effective at an ICER of £20,000–£30,000 per QALY, with flexibility up to £50,000 for end-of-life treatments.

Question 4

Which study design is most appropriate for estimating the prevalence of a disease in a population at a single point in time?

Accepted Answer

Cross-sectional study

Answer

A cross-sectional study measures both exposure and outcome simultaneously in a defined population, making it ideal for prevalence estimation.

Question 5

A scientist co-invents a diagnostic tool while employed by an NHS Trust. Who typically owns the intellectual property rights to this invention?

Accepted Answer

The NHS Trust as the employer

Answer

Under UK law, inventions made by employees in the course of their normal duties belong to the employer, in this case the NHS Trust.

(STP) Scientist Training Programme Practice Test

(STP) Scientist Training Programme Practice Test

STP Research, Development & Innovation 5