The Clinical Research Network West Midlands (CRN WM) is the largest of the 15 local Networks across England, covering a population size of 5.67 million.
Regional and national analyses have highlighted that the number of Chief investigator (CI) led studies and total number of CIs conducting NIHR portfolio studies in the WM falls substantially below national average. Upon this background, the CRN leadership have identified and prioritised increasing CI capacity in our region as one key strategic aim.
These posts are aimed at NHS, public health and social care staff in order to maximise access to research across the West Midlands wherever there is a health need; another major regional priority. The NIHR is committed to actively and openly supporting and promoting equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI). Applications would be particularly welcomed in this round from Public Health, Social Care and non-medical healthcare professions, and also from Partnership Organisations who have not previously or do not regularly nominate candidates.
These successful applicants will spend one day per week (equivalent to two sessions or programmed activities (PAs) a week) participating in research activities working in a unit with time, skills and track record to support career development. Where appropriate an individualised bespoke programme will be developed, based within departments at a research active unit to support study development. Qualitative, quantitative, action research and trials methodology proposals will be considered.
Where relevant, attachment to one of the regional Clinical Trials Units (CTUs): Birmingham (two), Warwick and Keele working with methodologists, systematic reviewers, grant writers, data managers, statisticians or epidemiologists as appropriate to develop their grant applications or publications. Scholars will also receive 1:1 personal mentoring.
This programme is also for (up to) one day a week (equivalent to two sessions or programmed activities (PAs) a week), and is specifically targeted to support more established and senior researchers who might not be necessarily be suitable for the RS fellowship (as they are already existing CIs), who do not currently have access to major grant programmes, but who are felt to be able to deliver significant translational research and become our future world leading researchers.
Informal enquiries are encouraged.
The application form should be submitted to Helen Walcott at helen.walcott@nihr.ac.uk
If appropriate, where co-funding will occur, a financial summary outlining the CRN and host institutions contributions should be included.
23 November - Open call and advertise
15 January - Deadline for full applications
18 Jan - 22nd Jan – Initial scoring
29 Jan – Shortlisting video conference
1 Feb – Applicants advised of shortlisting
1-5 March – Interviews scheduled by video conference
12 March – Applicants advised of outcomes
For the full description including details on eligibility and the criteria please visit the NIHR website.