This report presents the thirteenth annual survey of clinical academic staffing levels across UK medical schools. It provides a detailed analysis of workforce composition, funding, regional distribution, specialty coverage, and demographic trends as of 31 July 2014.
Summary
Clinical academics play a vital role in medical education, research and patient care. This report shows a relatively stable workforce of 3,131 full-time equivalent (FTE) clinical academics, with notable shifts in grade composition, gender balance and specialty distribution. It highlights ongoing challenges in recruitment, funding and diversity, while recognising progress in early-career development and gender representation.
Key findings
- There were 3,131 FTE clinical academics in post, with a headcount of 3,426.
- Professors now make up 44% of the workforce, reflecting an ageing profile and career progression.
- Lecturer numbers have increased by 41% since 2006, supported by structured training pathways.
- NHS funding supports 43% of posts, particularly at Lecturer level, while 44% are funded by Higher Education Funding Councils.
- London hosts 32% of the UK’s clinical academic workforce.
- Physicians/Medicine is the largest specialty group, followed by Surgery and Psychiatry.
- Six specialties, including Pathology and Psychiatry, have seen a decline in academic staff since 2005.
- 6% of posts were vacant, with recruitment difficulties reported in 23 medical schools.
- 28% of clinical academics are women, up from 21% in 2004, but only 18% of Professors are women.
- 16% of clinical academics are from Black and Minority Ethnic backgrounds, compared to 28% of doctors overall.
- 64% of consultant-level clinical academics hold Clinical Excellence or Distinction Awards, compared to 59% of NHS consultants.
- There are 2,052 FTE researchers and other clinical academics, many in early-career roles or teaching-focused posts.
Recommendations
- Sustain investment in early-career academic pathways and integrated training schemes.
- Address recruitment challenges in underrepresented specialties and senior roles.
- Promote flexible working and support for women and minority groups in academic medicine.
- Ensure continued collaboration between universities, the NHS and funders to maintain academic capacity.
- Monitor the impact of changes to Clinical Excellence Awards and ensure equitable recognition of academic contributions.
Next steps
The report calls for coordinated action to protect and grow the clinical academic workforce. It emphasises the importance of diversity, sustainability and strategic investment to ensure that academic medicine continues to support high-quality education, research and healthcare delivery across the UK.
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