Published: 30 January 2025

In response to the publication of Clinical researchers in the UK: reversing the decline, Nicola Perrin, Chief Executive of the Association of Medical Research Charities, said:

“Clinical academics are a crucial part of the UK’s research workforce. They have a unique understanding of both the research system and health service which allows them to bring cutting-edge innovations to patients.

"However, the number of clinical academics in the UK is falling at an alarming rate. This report outlines steps that the Government and funders urgently need to take to address this crisis and support a workforce that is fit for the future. We stand ready to make sure charities are key partners in the next stages of implementation.”

This report evaluates the current decline in clinical researchers, determines underlying causes and outlines necessary actions across stakeholders at a national level.

Nicola was part of the ‘Task and Finish’ group that prepared the report, which was convened by the Office for the Strategic Coordination of Health Research.

Read more about why embedding clinical research is fundamental to transforming the NHS in our briefing: 

Read our Embedding research in the NHS briefing