Abstract
OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to understand the experiences and perceptions of medical students and medical educators regarding barriers and facilitators for pursuing clinical academic pathways. DESIGN: A qualitative study using semistructured interviews and focus groups was conducted. A reflexive thematic analysis was used for data analysis. Theoretical and snowball sampling approaches were applied for participant recruitment. SETTING: University of Manchester and NHS Trusts in the Greater Manchester region. PARTICIPANTS: The sample of this study was composed of 43 participants, including medical and dental students, clinical academics, clinicians and stakeholders. RESULTS: Three themes were identified: Theme 1: Knowledge of the CA pathway; Theme 2: The costs linked to pursuing a clinical academic pathway; Theme 3: Exposure to and time for research. CONCLUSIONS: While institutions offer opportunities for research experience, there is a need for extended and more tailored opportunities and information, and the overall cost of training for students reduces the attractiveness of the clinical academic pathway.