Full Details coming soon….
In summary, this OOP opportunity is utilised when a Trainee wants to undertake a period of research, leading to an MD or PhD. Trainee may receive partial credit towards their CCT.
Trainee example of OOPR:
Dr Rachel Broadbent, ST6 in Medical Oncology, The Christie
PhD project: Developing lung cancer screening for survivors of Hodgkin lymphoma
Funding source: Multiple sources including charitable and NIHR funding
“For my PhD, I used mixed methods to develop a pilot study of lung cancer screening for survivors of Hodgkin lymphoma. I conducted interviews and designed and conducted a questionnaire study with the aim of understanding perspective, barriers and facilitators to attending a future lung cancer screening programme. This fed into the next study where I developed a patient decision aid for lung cancer screening and subsequently conducted a pilot study.
The themes of cancer survivorship and early cancer detection underpinned the research. I became experienced in protocol development, quantitative and qualitative research methodology and led the pilot of lung cancer screening. I wrote my thesis in journal format and published my work as I developed my thesis.
The best aspect of the PhD for me was the ability to be creative and take a lead on the studies. I gained confidence in my academic abilities and developed skills in literature review, protocol development, study management, writing and presenting. Plus, being out of programme, you have the time to focus on your research! However, I haven’t forgotten the difficulties: the slow pace of research and the administrative aspects can be frustrating and sometimes it can be lonely and anxiety-inducing. Because of this, my main tip would be to apply for projects you are truly interested in and ensure that you feel comfortable with your supervisors and confident that they will support