University to offer research 'tasters'
Vets will be offered the chance to spend six months doing research in the University of Bristol's medical labs.
The University of Bristol's School of Veterinary Science, in association with the University's Elizabeth Blackwell Institute, is offering veterinary clinicians the opportunity to spend six months doing research in their medical labs.
The tasters are designed to provide practicing vets with experience of working full-time in a research environment, and to inspire them to consider a career in research.
Supported by The Wellcome Trust, the scheme will be offered on a competitive basis. Successful recipients will receive six months of salary and research expenses, allowing them to come out of clinical practice and spend a concentrate period of time carrying out high quality research.
In its first year, the scheme funded two vets, Darren Carwardine and Cath Lewis, who enjoyed the experience of research so much that they are now studying for a PhD.
Commenting on the scheme, Darren said: "Working as a practicing vet I had no plans to undertake any formal research training but the clinical primer scheme was such an enjoyable and rewarding experience I was fortunate enough to be able to continue with the research I had started whilst studying towards a PhD."
Now in its second year, vets Susan Armstrong, Sarah Hughes and Jo Widdecomes are all enjoying their research projects and actively looking for PhD placements.
Susan said: "The Clinical Primer has been an invaluable opportunity to experience high-end research within the enabling environment of UOB. My goal now is to achieve PhD funding."
The third round of clinical primers is now open for applications. For further information about the scheme and to apply for this round of funding visit: www.bristol.ac.uk. Closing date is March 6, 2015.
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
