Challenges and opportunities in academic neurosurgery

Clinical academia aims to bridge the gap between clinicians and scientists, by combining academic activity with clinical practice. The term ‘clinical academics’ generally refers to clinicians who have protected time within their job plans for undertaking academic activities. Engagement with academic activity by trainees is not only essential to fulfil necessary curriculum competencies, but also allows them to explore areas of interest outside of clinical practice and develop advanced academic skills. This article provides an overview of different routes into academic neurosurgery, and discusses the advantages and difficulties in pursuing this career path. It also covers the differences between postgraduate research degrees and explores the different job plan models available at consultant level. Academic neurosurgery is a rewarding career and opportunities should be made available to those who wish to explore it further. Developing academic careers may have a positive impact on wider workforce planning strategies and improve the delivery of high-quality evidence-based neurosurgical care.