Physician trainee research collaboratives: a mixed methods exploration of UK experience.

BACKGROUND: Physician trainee research collaboratives (TRCs) help trainees develop research skills and establish peer networks. We aimed to identify the structure, activity and views of physician TRCs in the UK.
METHODS: Representatives from physician TRCs in the UK were invited to complete an online survey and participate in a focus group.
RESULTS: Representatives from 23 physician TRCs completed the survey. There was wide variation in collaborative structure, senior input and funding resources. Seventy-four per cent of physician TRCs had published peer-reviewed articles, with 70% reporting ongoing projects at the time of the survey. The survey and focus group identified improved patient care, research and leadership skills as benefits of collaborative work; while institutional and consultant support, limited time for research, funding opportunities and restrictions on group authorship were cited as challenges to collaborative success.
CONCLUSION: Physician TRC activity continues to grow and demonstrates a dynamic approach to research for all trainees. © Royal College of Physicians 2022. All rights reserved.