Building research capacity

A key recommendation from a 2024 NHS England survey is to establish a fully implemented clinical academic training pathway for pharmacists by 2030.

There is currently no formal training pathway for pharmacists who want to pursue a clinical-academic career. The NHS has recognised this gap and established the UK Pharmacy Research Advisory Group (PRAG). PRAG advises on integrating clinical-academic opportunities into workforce strategies and works with stakeholders across the pharmacy profession to champion pharmacist clinical-academics.

A key recommendation from the “Report of a UK survey of pharmacy professionals’ involvement in research,” commissioned by NHS England (published 29 February 2024), is the creation of a fully implemented clinical academic training pathway for pharmacy professionals by 2030.

Alongside this, professional practice frameworks are being developed to help pharmacists enhance their skills. Research is now recognised as a core pillar of the Advanced Practice Framework, and more pharmacists are incorporating research into their practice.

Together, these initiatives aim to increase research capacity in the pharmacy workforce and ensure pharmacists are supported in pursuing research and clinical-academic career pathways.

Opportunities in practice

You can develop your research skills at any stage of your pharmacy career. After qualification, getting involved in audits, service evaluations or quality improvement projects can help you build the skills needed for research and a future in clinical academia.

You should share your findings through publications, conference posters or local training events to showcase your work and contribute to the profession.

Professional specialist interest groups

Joining a pharmacist specialist interest group, such as the British Oncology Pharmacy Association (BOPA) if you are interested in cancer research, can help you build a peer network and connect with experts in your field. These groups can also give you opportunities to take part in collaborative research projects across the UK.

Examples of pharmacist professional specialist interest groups are included below. This list is not exhaustive, so you are encouraged to contact the UK Clinical Pharmacy Association (UKCPA) to find groups that match your professional or research interests.