My early career as a researcher: How the Clinical Research Network supported my journey
By Matt Kenyon (pictured, centre), physiotherapist, East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust.
Introduction: The Beginning of My Research Journey
On December 4, 2021, my professional trajectory took a pivotal turn. Despite being an advanced practitioner Physio in Blackburn for over two decades, I had limited exposure to structured research. My community, one of the UK's most deprived areas, suffers from significant health inequalities. This gap in research particularly affected the diverse population I served. Although I had a master's degree and experience with small local projects, I lacked the comprehensive research training and networks needed to address these disparities effectively. This is where the Clinical Research Network (CRN) played a transformative role in my journey.
Securing Support from the CRN with the Research Scholars Programme
Securing a place in the CRN's Research Scholars Programme marked the first major milestone in my research journey. This competitive programme provided dedicated time and resources to enhance my research skills and lead projects. It offered a series of invaluable training sessions, such as:
- Good Clinical Practice (GCP): This foundational training ensured I adhered to ethical and regulatory standards in my research.
- Project Inclusion and Northwest Principal Investigator Training: These sessions were crucial in understanding the intricacies of managing and leading research projects.
- Dragons' Den Panels and WisBang Grant Writing Workshops: These interactive workshops were particularly beneficial. The Dragons' Den panels provided a platform to pitch research ideas and receive constructive feedback from experienced researchers. The WisBang workshops demystified the grant writing process, offering practical tips and strategies for crafting successful grant proposals.
The programme extended beyond technical aspects, covering management, ethics, economics, and innovation. These comprehensive sessions provided me with a well-rounded skill set to lead research projects effectively. Moreover, the Research Scholars Programme fostered a supportive community of scholars. This network has been pivotal, offering mutual support, sharing experiences, and collaborating on projects. The camaraderie and collective wisdom of my peers have been invaluable throughout my research journey.
Outputs from the Research Scholars Programme
Over the past two years, I have maximised the opportunities provided by the Research Scholars Programme. I completed several postgraduate courses on qualitative research methodology and behaviour change, which were essential in refining my research approach. Building a robust national and international network has been another significant achievement, connecting me with experts and peers in the field. I have completed several research projects, some of which are now submitted for publication and presented at national and international conferences. I successfully secured my first grant and played an active role in mentoring two early-career researchers through the NIHR programme. These accomplishments reflect the profound impact of the Research Scholars Programme on my professional development.
Support from Mary Speake and the Team: Delivering the Research Ready Communities Project
Recognising the importance of community engagement, I collaborated with Mary Speake and her CRN North West Workforce Learning and Development Team on the Research Ready Communities (RRC) project. This initiative aimed to involve underserved populations in research, ensuring their voices were heard. We secured over £11,000 in funding, allowing us to dedicate time and resources to this project. We recruited three community champions from ethnic minority groups, vulnerable adults, and those living with disabilities. These champions were trained in interview techniques and have been instrumental in reaching over 100 individuals. Their insights are shaping our research priorities and service provision, highlighting the crucial role of community engagement in meaningful research.
A key objective of the RRC project is to establish a permanent community engagement team in Blackburn. This team will provide a continuous voice for everyone in the community, ensuring that healthcare provision and research priorities are shaped by those who are most affected. By embedding this initiative within the community, we aim to create a sustainable model for ongoing engagement and collaboration with continued support from the CRN.
The Research Festival: Project Managing with CRN Support
To disseminate our findings and foster collaboration, we organised a Research Festival in March. With the CRN's support, I helped project manage this event, which brought together local leaders, stakeholders, and community members. The festival aimed to present our research themes and findings, sparking dialogue and collaboration for future projects. This event underscored the importance of effective community engagement and the impact of inclusive research practices. It was a testament to the value of bringing research directly to the community and involving them in the process.
ARC Internship: Preparing for My Doctoral Clinical Academic Fellowship
A significant milestone in my journey was securing a £6,000 NIHR Applied Research Collaboration (ARC) Greater Manchester internship to prepare my Doctoral Clinical Academic Fellowship (DCAF) application. This funding was crucial in providing the time and resources needed to refine my research plans and prepare a comprehensive application. The internship involved detailed planning, collaboration with mentors and supervisors, and the development of a robust research proposal. This preparation will culminate in my submission for the fellowship on June 11 2024, marking a significant step forward in my research career.
Ongoing Support from the CRN: Professor Enitan Carroll as My Practice Supervisor
The support from the CRN extends beyond initial training and funding. Professor Enitan Carroll, the Clinical Director of CRN North West Coast, has agreed to be my practice supervisor for my DCAF. Her mentorship and guidance are invaluable as I navigate this new phase of my career. Having such an esteemed and experienced supervisor provides a solid foundation for my research endeavours, ensuring I have the support needed to achieve my goals and make a meaningful impact.
Conclusion: Reflecting on My Journey and Looking Ahead
Looking back on my journey from December 4, 2021, to now, I see significant progress and transformation. The CRN has been a constant source of support, providing training, mentorship, and opportunities to engage with the community. I have transitioned from a clinician with limited research experience to a confident researcher with a clear vision and robust network.
My journey is far from over. With the skills and networks I have developed, I am committed to advancing research that addresses health inequalities, particularly in underserved populations. The ongoing support from the CRN, my mentors, and my fellow scholars is pivotal as I continue to pursue a clinical academic role. Together, we are making a difference, and I look forward to the future with confidence and determination.
The views and opinions expressed in this blog are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the NIHR or the Department of Health and Social Care.
