Nada Khan
Current Position: Academic Clinical Fellow
Research Field: Primary care and patient safety
Why did you decide to undertake clinical academic training and what pathway have you taken so far?
I decided to undertake clinical academic training to allow me to take research questions from my clinical practice and conduct high quality research to tackle these issues. I worked in research prior to my medical degree, completing a DPhil in Primary Care at the University of Oxford. I then completed my MBBS, then undertook an academic foundation post before starting my current ACF in general practice.
Why did you choose to conduct your clinical training at the University of Exeter and what are some of the highlights?
Exeter has a great reputation for clinical training for GPs, with a strong and supportive VTS. The highlights are getting to work in a thriving academic environment at the University and working across a highly diverse set of general practice locations across the city and rural Devon.
What challenges have you faced during your clinical academic training and how have you overcome these?
One of the big challenges has been juggling clinical work, academic research and a young family. I’ve overcome these challenges by trying to be very organised and efficient with my work.
What impact has clinical academic training had on your career and what are your next steps?
My next step is to start an academic clinical lectureship in general practice here at the University of Exeter. Clinical academic training has given me a really positive balance in terms of my work week and allows me to do a variety of different things to keep my week really interesting.
What advice would you give to an aspiring clinical academic?
Just go for it! Ask lots of people for advice and find a helpful and supportive mentor. It’s a great career.
