Clinical Lectureships (CLs)
Clinical lectureships generally provide opportunities for postdoctoral research and teaching. They facilitate applications for further research funding for doctors working towards completion of specialty training.
what is a CL?
The majority of CL posts are aimed at doctors with a PhD/MD (or equivalent), who already have specialty training experience. They are intended for those who can demonstrate outstanding potential for development as a clinical academic in research and/or medical education.
Many of the posts are funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) as part of the Integrated Academic Training Programme for doctors.
These posts are usually 4 years in duration and are funded to spend 50% of time in specialist clinical training and the remainder undertaking postdoctoral research. A period of dedicated clinical training may be appropriate (either prior to application or during the CL) in order to complete specialty training within the four-year period.
By the end of the clinical lectureship, a Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT) may be achieved depending on specialty and entry level, accompanied by high-quality postdoctoral research, and hopefully funding for further postdoctoral research.
There are CL posts available in some universities that are for longer periods of 6 years and that do not require a doctorate. Often there is a significant teaching component to these posts alongside an opportunity to undertake a PhD/MD.
Who is eligible?
Not all CLs have the same entry criteria. The minimum criteria are usually having achieved ST2 competence and having completed a PhD/MD or an MB PhD programme. Some specialties require competence at ST3 or above.
Find out about the our CL programmes in Why Oxford? - Our CLs.
Where next, after a CL?
You may apply for a Clinical Senior Lectureship or a Fellowship from an external funding body. There are a range of opportunities available for further postdoctoral funding such as Clinician Scientist schemes.
