Research Opportunities and ARCP Guidance

Research is an important component of postgraduate psychiatry training and can contribute to demonstrating progression against the ARCP curriculum requirements. Trainees are encouraged to engage with research activities appropriate to their level of training, whether through involvement in ongoing projects, case reports, systematic reviews, recruitment to research studies, or other research-related activities. Early awareness of the requirements and available opportunities can help trainees plan their portfolio and make meaningful use of opportunities during their rotations.

As part of a Quality Improvement Project aimed at increasing research awareness and engagement among resident doctors within the Trust, a centralised research resource has been developed. The below link provides a single point of access to information and resources to help trainees understand the research opportunities available within the Trust and how they can get involved.

The resource includes:

• ARCP research requirements for both core and higher psychiatry trainees, providing guidance on what is expected at different stages of training.
• Current and ongoing research projects within the Trust, including the responsible consultant/research lead, to help trainees identify projects and appropriate contacts.
• A PowerPoint presentation by Dr Anto Rajamani outlining available research opportunities and providing practical guidance on how to get started in research.
• Educational resources from three research workshops, including recordings/videos and PowerPoint presentations:
  • Session 1 - Mark Howell: General Overview of Research in the NHS - covering research terminology and the difference between academia and delivering research within the NHS.
  • Session 2 - Dr Anto Rajamani: How to Write a Case Report - providing practical guidance on developing and writing a case report.
  • Session 3 - Dr Pallab Majumder: How to Conduct a Systematic Review - introducing the key principles and practical steps involved in undertaking a systematic review.

Trainees are encouraged to use this resource early in their training and throughout their rotations, particularly when planning their ARCP portfolio or looking for opportunities to become involved in research. The aim is to make research opportunities more accessible, reduce uncertainty about how to get started, and support the development of a stronger research culture across the Trust.

Research resource: Research for Resident doctors - All Documents This link is only available within the Trust.