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“Privileged and fantastic opportunity” opens to female healthcare scientists

NHS England has opened applications for a prestigious science fellowship scheme, aimed at helping female healthcare scientists to improve patient care, access training, and increase women’s access to leadership roles.

The fellowship, now entering its third year, is aimed at scientists at mid-career level working across the NHS. The NHS England Chief Scientific Officer, Professor Sue Hill OBE announced the scheme, which offers four candidates a career development programme including mentoring, communication and leadership skills training to support career development. The programme is run with WISE, the campaign for gender balance in science, technology and engineering.

Professor Sue Hill OBE, Chief Scientific Officer for England, said: “The NHS has a proud history of scientific and technological advances in patient care. We are delighted to partner with WISE and launch this prestigious opportunity for a third year. Science and innovation are vital to developing treatments in areas like genomic medicine and antimicrobial resistance. Ensuring our NHS is always at the cutting edge of science, this fellowship programme recognises the significant contribution women make to technology and engineering, through scientific progress and inspiring the next generation of scientists.”

Dr Michelle Foster, Clinical Scientist in Audiology at Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, and a successful 2017 recipient, said: “The Chief Scientific Officer WISE Fellowship has been one of the most exciting opportunities I have ever had. It has opened opportunities, and the career development programme has given me the confidence to maximise them. The other fellows have also become great friends and a support. The fellowship gives you a platform from which to be able to network and inspire other women.  No one should have any doubts about applying, it’s such a privileged and fantastic opportunity.”

Helen Wollaston, Chief Executive, WISE, highlighted the impressive impact the fellows are able to achieve with the programme support. “The ripple effect of the WISE Fellowship has surpassed all expectations. With a relatively modest input, these women are going full steam ahead – finding board positions, leading change in their Trusts and beyond. Their energy, enthusiasm and determination are truly impressive and they are a real asset to our campaign.”

The initiative is run in partnership with WISE, the campaign for gender balance in science, technology and engineering.

All applications must be received by May 13 2018.