It really is difficult to express all the positives of a clinical fellowship – research, Anaesthesia and Critical Care, at the Queen’s Medical Centre.

A little about me. I was about halfway through my ST6 year in Leicester when I was granted time out of programme for research (OOPR). I successfully applied for the clinical fellow - research post. I also got accepted to the PhD research programme of the University of Nottingham. It really has been an amazing time.

The academic department of anaesthesia and critical care has expertise in qualitative and quantitative methods and there are options of clinical research or computational methods.

I think what has been so good for me is the freedom I have had in determining the direction of my research. And the opportunities to learn and grow my portfolio as a researcher has been great.

During the fellowship I have:

• Been given the time to pursue my PhD.

• Been appointed by the University of Nottingham as a Clinical Assistant Professor.

• Published.

• Had my work presented to the senior management stratum of the Trust.

• Generally evolved as a researcher.

• And during all this, I have maintained my clinical skills. Perhaps, improved my skills in major trauma and neurosurgery.

It’s not just about the portfolio stuff though. The opportunities to meet people, make a name for yourself, collaborate cannot be quantified but are as important as the portfolio stuff.

Admittedly, it is hard work, but well worth it! And I have been well supported both by the clinical and academic departments.

From talking to people there seems to be the notion that you need to be an established academic to get the academic fellowship. In my experience the only requirements are motivation and hard work.

So, hopefully see you in the department soon.