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Clinical research careers for AHPs, pharmacists and dentists in the UK

Your specialty knowledge is your edge. Here is how allied health professionals, pharmacists and dentists find their way into research.

Your biggest advantageRunning assessments and outcome measures, working to protocols and managing patient data
Where most people startClinical Research Practitioner, specialty research roles, clinical trials pharmacy
Read closelyLeading your CV with the assessments you already run

Where to start

Start with research in your own field. Physiotherapists, radiographers, dietitians and others are wanted on studies in their specialty. Pharmacists can look at clinical trials pharmacy teams, and dentists at dental research units and trial roles.

Specialty research jobs can be hard to come by, so starting in an entry level research role before pivoting back to your specialty is often the best route.

What to focus on

Treat your assessments as study skills

The assessments and outcome measures you run every day are research skills in their own right. Lead your CV with them.

Show your registration near the top

Put your HCPC, GPhC or GDC registration alongside your GCP certificate.

Pharmacists: learn IMP management

Investigational medicinal product handling and accountability come up in applications and interviews.

Use the Associate PI Scheme

The NIHR Associate PI Scheme is open to allied health professionals too, and gives you recognised research experience.

Your full route is in the free guide

  • Which NIHR and specialist courses fit your profession
  • How to evidence protocol adherence and data accuracy
  • Where specialty research roles are actually advertised
  • The interview questions you are likely to face
  • All ten steps, plus three bonus steps from the inside
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Bands are a rough guide. Every advert is different, so always check the person specification.

Other routes

Doctors and IMGsNurses and midwivesHCAs and support workersGraduatesCareer changers
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