BRC Training Academy

Academic Career Development

Welcome to the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Sheffield Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) Training Academy. Our goal is to develop research capacity across our themes to reflect clinical advances and global need. To achieve this, we support the next generation of researchers though BRC-supported PhD studentships, clinical research fellowships and formal training schemes for Nurses, Midwives and Allied Health Professionals (NMAHPs).

The NIHR Sheffield BRC is committed to supporting people who have demonstrated exceptional academic abilities, strong research potential, and a deep commitment to advancing translational research. Our funding presents an exciting opportunity for our members to engage in cutting-edge research, work alongside renowned researchers, and contribute to ground-breaking discoveries that could have a significant impact on patient care and medical knowledge.

NIHR Sheffield BRC Training Academy (BTA)

As well as becoming a member of the wider NIHR Academy, trainees funded by Sheffield BRC are also eligible to become a member of the local Sheffield BRC Training Academy (BTA).

Eligibility criteria: Our BTA comprises of Clinical Fellows, PhD students, early-career postdoctoral researchers and Nurses, Midwives and Allied Health Professionals (NMAHPs) undertaking a formal training scheme. To become a BTA member, trainees must fulfil the criteria for NIHR Academy members, as well as receive at least 25% of their funding from Sheffield BRC.

Key activities/benefits of BTA membership:

Annual BTA Presentation Day: Each year, BTA members get the opportunity to present their research to a panel of experts and receive feedback on their project, presentation skills and future career goals. Attendance at this event is compulsory for all current and recently completed BTA members.
Mentorship Scheme: The Academic Career Development Lead, as well as the Training Representative for each Theme, will meet with each member at least once per year to offer guidance on their current project as well as provide support for future career aspirations.
Distribution Lists: Members are the first to hear about career development opportunities available to them, both locally within Sheffield as well as national funding schemes, awards and events via email. This ensures that our members take full advantage of their unique position and the opportunities available to them.
Local Sheffield Workshops: Based on the needs of the group, bespoke workshops, presentations and other training opportunities will be developed for BTA members within Sheffield, either hosted by the University of Sheffield, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals or external sources. Previously, these have included bioinformatics workshops, statistical support and PPIE workshops.
PPIE Training: It is key that all BTA members become aware of the importance of PPIE within their research. As a member of the BTA, PPIE training will be provided and trainees will be expected to demonstrate this within their own area of research. Members will be able to take advantage of the wide range of PPIE groups associated with Sheffield BRC.