What is an ACF?
An Academic Clinical Fellowship (ACF) is a training post that combines:
• Clinical training (75%)
• Protected academic time (25%)
It is designed to support doctors in preparing for a doctoral research fellowship (PhD or MD).
Who can apply?
ACFs are open to:
• Doctors in the early stages of specialty training
Applicants who meet both:
• The clinical person specification, and
• The academic criteria for the post
Do I need research experience?
Not necessarily, but you should demonstrate:
• An interest in research
• Evidence of academic potential
• Commitment to developing a clinical academic career
What is clinical benchmarking?
Clinical benchmarking ensures that applicants meet the standard required for the associated clinical training programme. You may need to:
• Apply to national specialty recruitment
• Be deemed appointable at clinical interview
How is the academic time organised?
Your 25% academic time may be arranged in different ways, such as:
• One day per week
• Block placements (e.g. 3–6 months)
• A combination across the programme
This will be agreed with your academic and clinical supervisors.
Can I train less than full time (LTFT)?
Yes. Less than full time training is supported, and academic time will be adjusted proportionally.
What happens after an ACF?
Most ACFs aim to:
• Secure a doctoral fellowship (PhD or MD)
Following this, trainees may:
• Return to clinical training
• Apply for a Clinical Lectureship (CL)
Will I need a university contract?
Yes.
• ACFs are employed by the NHS
• You will also hold an honorary contract with a partner university
Where will I be based?
You will be based within:
• A South West NHS training programme
• A partner university (Bristol or Exeter or Plymouth)
Exact placements will be confirmed following appointment unless stated in the job description.
Can I apply for more than one ACF post?
Yes, but:
• You must ensure each application is completed correctly
• You should carefully check eligibility for each post
Can I change my preferences after applying?
No. Once submitted:
• Applications cannot be amended
• Preferences must be selected carefully before submission
Who can I contact for advice?
• Academic recruitment team (South West)
• Local integrated academic training leads
• Academic leads
Please contact the recruitment team who can point you in the right direction.