The MMI Clinician Scientist Fellowship Programme (CSFP) was a structured 3-year PhD programme for medical graduates, with the objective of developing the next generation of clinician scientists.
The CSFP was funded in 2007 through the Programme for Research in Third Level Institutions (Cycle 4), administered by the Higher Education Authority. Recruitment was in two stages, with 19 fellowships awarded to commence the programme in July 2008 and a further 4 fellowships awarded in 2009.
This training programme transcended institutional boundaries to give Fellows unparalleled access to the top biomedical researchers in the country and to state-of-the-art basic and clinical research facilities. The aim was to educate biomedical investigators who, motivated by the intellectual challenge of understanding disease at the molecular level, will lead the quest for new therapeutic strategies.
Structure and Collaborative Resources
MMI Clinician Scientist Fellows undertook a 3-year structured PhD, carrying out a research project in MMI's five partner institutions (UCC, NUI Galway, TCD, UCD and RCSI). Fellows were co-supervised by basic and clinician scientists to develop a collaborative translational research training environment.
The cohort of Fellows come together annually for structured training, developing their experience beyond any single laboratory or institution. This national element to the Programme, coordinated by MMI, comprises a structured course curriculum, providing research training and important ancillary professional skills. An annual meeting of Fellows and their supervisors gives them the opportunity to present their research and network with other Fellows, supervisors and the wider research community.
Outputs
Research areas pursued by MMI Clinician Scientist Fellows have included cancer, cystic fibrosis, autism, diabetes, heart disease, and disorders of pregnancy.
Scientific Publications and Publicity for Research Breakthroughs & Awards
External Review
In June 2009, MMI commissioned an external review of the Clinician Scientist Fellowship Programme.
MMI Clinician Scientist Fellowship Programme External Review Recommendations
