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Post-doctoral Bridging Scheme

The post-doctoral bridging award is for those who hold a PhD (or are due to complete immediately before commencement of the scheme) and want to develop research careers whilst continuing with their clinical practice and clinical development. The award is designed to support those intending to apply for a Advanced Clinical and Practitioner Academic Fellowship (ACAF) or equivalent.

These awards are free to successful applicants and offer protected study time over 6 months along with formal training and support.

It offers a grant to the applicant’s employing organisation based on 50% of the applicants contracted NHS hours up to a maximum of £17,000 to support an applicant to spend time developing a fellowship application.

The grant will cover employer capacity support, training modules and travel expenses. Other costs may also include:

  • Visiting research institutes both in the UK and internationally in order to establish networks.
  • Attendance at conferences and presenting work.
  • Writing up and publishing research papers.
  • Training and leadership skills enhancement where appropriate.
  • To support the research programme.
  • Salary support to cover study time and preparation of fellowship application

How to apply

Applications for this round close on 5th April 2024.

For further details and to access application forms and guidance notes, please click the links below.

Additional Details

For specific enquiries regarding the Pre-doctoral Bridging Scheme please contact joanne.simpson@researchnorthwest.nhs.uk

For examples of how the ICA programme has transformed healthcare please download the AUKUH report here: