What makes a good application? NIHR/HEE Integrated Clinical Academic Programme What makes a good application? And how is it different from other schemes… Prof Jackie Campbell, University of Northampton

A career pathway…. 5 levels Internships Masters in Clinical Research Studentships Clinical Doctoral Research Fellowship Clinical Lectureship Senior Clinical Lectureship

*Clinical Doctoral Fellowships (and the rest) They look for: Potential Ability Vision Quality They are not the same as project grant applications. These are personal awards – NIHR is investing in you as a future research leader * Bits in italics refer only to the Clinical Academic awards

They look for ..specifically Planned trajectory of the candidates as a researcher Previous experience of research and evidence of commitment to a career involving research Quality of the proposed research, and suitability for a PhD project The extent to which the Fellowship will support the development of clinical skills Suitability of the proposed academic and institutional support Quality of the proposed research training programme Appropriateness of the resources claimed indicating good value for money

Key selling points Demonstration of clarity of thought Carefully constructed and focussed proposal Good justification for the supervisory team Evidence of previous research training Obvious commitment to research leadership ambitions Obvious academic potential of the project Obvious vision in respect of a clinical academic career

Key selling points…..cont Commitment to balance of the proposed career in terms of research and clinical work Study which is not overly ambitious Appropriate level of detail Clear identification of the research skills needing development Clearly articulated rationale for the study

Key selling points…..cont Clear evidence of theoretical underpinning for the project work Clear identification of plans for the incorporation of research elements into future clinical work Clear statement of how patients will benefit from the research undertaken Demonstration of an understanding of ethical principles and ethics and governance frameworks

Key selling points…..cont Demonstration of a clear vision of how the Fellowship will benefit the candidates career within the NHS, particularly if they are already in a high level position The proposal should demonstrate ownership of the project on behalf of the candidate Clearly articulated and creative training programme A project plan which is clearly focussed on developing the applicant’s discipline

And at interview (CDRF)…… Know your proposal (backwards) – even the stats! Own your project Be committed to clinical practice Be enthusiastic Be prepared to discuss Stick to time (presentation) Stick to the question (interview)

In summary A good application needs: An excellent candidate Meticulous planning Expert support Personal commitment to a combination of research and clinical practice Enthusiasm A long time to get it right