What is the Specialised Foundation Programme?
The Specialised Foundation Programme allows 5% of trainee doctors to combine clinical training with research methods training.
Each academic programme includes a clinical F1 year that also includes regular training on research methods.
The second year F2 rotation includes two clinical specialties and one academic placement with hands-on research. Each rotation lasts for four months.
The programme starts in August each year.
What specialties are academic placements available in?
Academic research placements are available in:
Child Health
In one of the following specialties:
- endocrinology
- gastroenterology
- infection and immunology
- neonatology
- oncology
- respiratory
- nutrition
Clinical and Experimental Sciences
In one of the following specialties:
- dermatology
- gastroenterology
- hepatology
- neurology
- respiratory
- intensive treatment unit
- child health
Clinical Genetics
Human Development and Health
Medical Oncology
Primary Care and Population Studies
Particularly in the topic areas of:
- infection
- respiratory disease
- mental health
- alternative medicines
- liver disease
- renal disease
Psychiatry
Surgery
In particular:
- breast
- colorectal
- HPB and liver
- oesophageal
- head and neck
- paediatric
All academic research placements are based in Southampton.
A medical education specialised foundation placement based in Salisbury is also available.
What is the value of a Specialised Foundation training post?
Successful completion of an academic placement in the F2 year can strengthen the prospects for trainees competing for Clinical Academic Fellowships in their registrar rotations.
For more information about this programme, please visit the Health Education England - Wessex site or contact Dr Chrissie Jones, our lead for specialised foundation trainees,
How do I apply for a Specialised Foundation post?
Visit our vacancies page for instructions on how to apply.