Sir, in relation to redeployment we write to encourage individuals to consider the full range of skills at their disposal during this crisis, particularly in support of areas that do not involve direct patient care, such as research.

Research and Innovation departments around the UK are cooperating at unprecedented speed and scale to deliver COVID-19 related projects, such as ISARIC1 and the RECOVERY2 trial. Dentists are well placed to fulfil roles in research teams, for example, making use of excellent communication skills or applying expertise in consent to complex circumstances. Other non-patient-facing roles such as applying clinical knowledge to eligibility screening, checking drug interactions or data collection are also well within the skillset of a dental professional.

Prior experience of research can be beneficial but is often not required. Good quality online training can be accessed by completing 'Good Clinical Practice' which is available through 'NIHR learn' along with other useful resources to get involved with research.

Within our trust the COVID-19 research delivery group is a multi-professional team of research nurses of various backgrounds, histopathologists, dentists, immunologists, and cardiologists to name a few. Experience ranges from junior trainee to consultant.

We implore clinicians not already employed on the frontline and considering redeployment, to contact their local research team and offer any assistance they feel able.