Many nurses undertake research, either as part of a research team or independently as the research lead. Nurses are well placed to participate in research, using their clinical skills to the benefit of both the participants and the research objectives. This article focuses on the value of nurses in research. Using the example of their own experiences of a large NHS clinical trial, the authors demonstrate how nurses can become involved in research, what skills are needed, and how nursing skills and experience can contribute to the role of a clinical assessor/research nurse.