Academic medicine in the UK has received several serious setbacks in the past two decades. Departments of psychiatry in the new medical schools have had difficulties in recruiting academic psychiatrists: posts remain unfilled or are filled by non-psychiatrists. Among the reasons for this are the research assessment exercise (RAE), lack of interest, poorly defined career structures, and pressures (financial and otherwise) on the National Health Service. This book, edited by academic psychiatrists and under the aegis of the Association for Academic Psychiatry, aims to provide a map for US trainees to encourage them to join academic psychiatry. In this, it also points to ways in which UK trainees can be encouraged to do so.
The book has 29 chapters, divided into six sections. The first section - ‘Getting started’ - covers academic careers, strategies for academically oriented residents (trainees), psychologists and others. ‘Smart strategies’ and questions to discuss with a mentor or a colleague are given, including activities and priorities. The second section - ‘Getting there’ - includes a well-written chapter on preparing a curriculum vitae, attending interviews for an academic position and evaluating a contractual offer. The chapter on interviews includes sensitive issues and how to deal with questions which may be ‘illegal’. The third section covers managing time, reading and preparing budgets, aligning one's goals with those of colleagues, the department and the institution, understanding and preparing for academic promotion, negotiating with the department chair and developing ethics skills. There is plenty of sensible and practical advice.
The fourth part covers feedback, teaching, writing test questions and letters of recommendation. Some of these issues are rarely discussed in training and are often shrouded in mist. For example, with a move in the UK towards open letters of recommendation and structured references, it is helpful to learn to write such letters. The fifth section deals with developing academic skills: literature research, evaluating clinical research, publishing, reviewing manuscripts, grant applications and quality improvement. The last section provides an overview on how to continue professional development, and gives information on certification, mentoring, networking, taking care of oneself and creating a positive early career environment.
Aimed at academics, the book is applicable to all trainees. It will be of interest to those planning to train in psychiatry and those already in the system.
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