Developing research skills

An inquisitive and curious mindset is fundamental to pursuing a clinical academic career. This should be supported by a broad range of research skills that develop over time.

Clinical and academic research is evolving rapidly. The technical skills, methods and expertise needed to work successfully in these areas will continue to change as new technologies, data sources and approaches emerge.

What research skills do I need to be a clinical academic?

There is no single set of research skills that all clinical academics need. The skills required will vary depending on your research interests, discipline and methods. However, some research skills are useful across many areas of clinical academic practice.

Where can I find training courses as a clinical academic?

Universities, research institutes and NHS employers offer training courses covering many of the research skills needed for clinical academic training. Some courses may be available free of charge if they are provided by your employer.

How can I pay for courses?

When applying for a research grant, you can often request additional funding to support the skills training needed for your proposed research. Some funders also offer dedicated funding streams or bursaries that clinical academics can use specifically for skills training.

What if my employer or host institution doesn’t offer the training I need?

While many core research skills remain relevant over time, new techniques and technologies continue to emerge. A wide range of organisations provide technical and research skills training that is open to both internal and external participants.

You may wish to explore the following course catalogues and resource collections:

Some clinical academics have reported limited training opportunities in key research areas such as bioinformatics, statistics, qualitative research and digital skills. If you’re seeking training in these fields, we’ve highlighted a selection of courses below that some trainees have found particularly useful.

Always check what training your employer or host institution already offers, as new courses may be added regularly. If you know others who are interested in developing skills in a particular area, let your employer know, this feedback can help shape future training opportunities.

The Clinical Academic Training & Careers Hub is not affiliated with any of the listed course providers and does not receive any commission from the links provided.