Examples of consultants' objectives - BMA

Undertaking a research project
Suitable for Consultant – academic or NHS.
Objective
To carry out a research project.
Actions to achieve objective
Identify collaborators, develop research ‘question’ and write protocol.
Apply for research governance and ethical approval; investigate funding sources.
Success criteria and measures
Publication or presentation of research.
Award of research grant.
Agreed review process and timetable
Reviewed at six-monthly intervals with director of research.
Support required (including removal of organisational barriers)
Peer review, mentorship and training.
NHS or university research and development officer / department support.
SPA time for research in job plan.
There is now a complex NHS research approval process which takes time, expertise and support. Much
research is now collaborative which requires putting the research team in place as a research leader and
identifying the support and roles of each of the participants. Research grant capture is becoming much
more competitive but local sources of funding are available.
Doctors participating in research should have appropriate time for research training, needed to enable
consultants to process the paperwork required. Sufficient time to take part in the research is essential as
is the need to identify the support required for success, identifying a mentor and a local supportive
informal peer review process will increase the chances of successful research and grant capture.
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