Harvey, Desley, Plummer, David, Nielsen, Ilsa, Adams, Robyn, and Pain, Tilley (2016) Becoming a clinician researcher in allied health. Australian Health Review, 40 (5). pp. 562-569.

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Abstract

Objective: Combining research with clinical practice has benefits for health services and practitioners. There is limited information available on strategies used by health professionals to balance research with high clinical service demands. The aims of the present study were to examine how research is initiated and to identify the factors that influence the successful integration of research into a clinical work role.

Methods: Semistructured recursive-style interviews were conducted with 15 research-active allied health professionals at regional health services using a combination of criterion and purposive sampling. Interviews were recorded, transcribed and analysed using constant comparative techniques to identify dominant themes, which were integrated to create a conceptual model.

Results: Becoming a clinician researcher involved four phases: (1) a research debut; (2) building momentum; (3) developing a track record; and (4) becoming an established clinician researcher. A research debut was enabled by pre-entry exposure to research or through quality activities, predisposing personal characteristics and research opportunities at work. Quarantined time for research, a research-friendly workplace culture and supportive research relationships enabled a clinician to thrive as a researcher despite the challenges.

Conclusion: The clinician researcher career trajectory contributes to a better understanding of how a research career commences and develops in clinical settings. It may assist to develop strategies to support research capacity building.

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