Research Academy

Students want to do SEM research. A lot struggle to find a way in.

Keen to learn research skills, but don’t know a supervisor or how to get involved, and need help with the steps of a research project.

The Research Academy links it all together, with USEMS providing mentorship, resources and support.

Have ideas and questions worth answering, but no spare hours to find students, teach them and keep a team moving.

Challenge: Little SEM exposure
SEM is barely on the medical school curriculum, so it is hard to know much about research in these areas.
The Academy’s answer: Proper SEM projects
Work on a project in an SEM area with a supervisor who has a special interest in it, and get an introduction to academic SEM.
Challenge: Few research skills
Even medical school rarely teaches the steps of a project, such as the steps of a systematic review.
The Academy’s answer: Guides for each step
Practical guides for research skills, from your first idea and search strategy through each stage, supported by a whole team.
Challenge: Time is tight
A medical degree leaves little to spare, so research has to fit around placements and exams.
The Academy’s answer: A team around you
Every project has multiple students, a USEMS project mentor and a senior supervisor, so the workload is shared.
Challenge: Building a network
Getting involved often comes down to contacts. Networking can be difficult for those who cannot afford conferences or MSc degrees.
The Academy’s answer: Real connections
The Academy aims to cut down on cold LinkedIn messages and build a meaningful network between students and clinicians.

Step 1
Register interest
Create a free USEMS account and register your interest, then send in your application when applications open.
Step 2
Learn the basics
Build the basics of research with the Academy’s guides before your project starts.
Step 3
Join a project team
Be placed on a team and a project that fits your interests and the hours you can give.
Step 4
Do the research
Work through each stage with your supervisor and team, with a short weekly call and clear tasks.
Step 5
Present and publish
Work towards an abstract or manuscript, with outputs that help your future specialty applications.

Applications aren’t open yet. Register your interest below and we’ll let you know when they are.

Create a free USEMS account and register your interest, and we’ll email you when the Research Academy opens.

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