This is the tenth annual survey conducted by the Medical Schools Council to assess clinical academic staffing levels across UK medical schools. The report analyses data by academic grade, specialty, region, gender, age and ethnicity. It also examines funding sources, vacancy rates and the distribution of Clinical Excellence Awards. The findings provide a detailed picture of the clinical academic workforce and inform future workforce planning.
Summary
Clinical academic medicine plays a vital role in UK healthcare, combining education, research and patient care. This report presents data on clinical academic staffing levels in UK medical schools as of July 2011. It highlights progress in early-career recruitment, persistent challenges in specialty coverage and diversity, and the need for continued investment in academic training pathways.
Key findings
- There were 3,162 full-time equivalent clinical academics in post, a stable figure compared with 2010.
- Lecturer numbers have increased by 34% since 2006, supported by NHS investment and structured training pathways.
- Professors and Senior Lecturers make up 83% of the workforce; Lecturers account for 17%.
- Some specialties, including pathology, anaesthetics and obstetrics & gynaecology, continue to see long-term declines.
- General Practice and Physicians/Medicine have grown significantly since 2000.
- Vacancy rates remain at 6%, with recruitment challenges in several specialties and at senior levels.
- The workforce is ageing, but recent increases in younger academics are encouraging.
- Women remain underrepresented at senior levels, though their numbers are increasing steadily.
- Ethnic diversity is improving, particularly among Lecturers and younger age groups.
- Clinical academics are more likely than NHS consultants to hold national Clinical Excellence Awards.
Recommendations
- Sustain investment in early-career academic pathways and fellowships.
- Address recruitment challenges in underrepresented specialties and senior roles.
- Promote flexible training models to support academic development alongside clinical training.
- Strengthen diversity through targeted initiatives and support for career progression.
- Ensure continued collaboration between universities, the NHS and funders to protect academic capacity.
Next steps
We are calling for coordinated action across universities, the NHS, funders and policymakers. The report recommends regular data collection and evaluation to monitor progress and ensure that the clinical academic workforce reflects the diversity of those entering medical and dental education. Sustained collaboration will be essential to build a resilient, inclusive and future-ready academic workforce.
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