Experimental Medicine Initiative (EMI) with industry
Established in 2016, the Experimental Medicine Initiative (EMI) provides an industrial funding framework for clinical PhD studentships and academic clinical lectureships (ACLs). The Office for Translational Research manages EMI on behalf of the University of Cambridge and in partnership with Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) and industry partners, including AstraZeneca and GlaxoSmithKline.
The development of new drugs and innovative therapies increasingly relies on Experimental Medicine studies in humans in order to achieve early proof-of-concept, to understand disease (patho)physiology, to progress biomarker development/validation and to evaluate techniques for subject stratification. This training partnership between academia and the pharmaceutical industry is designed to address the current shortage of individuals skilled in the design and delivery of such studies and to address the first translational research gap. This programme provides state-of-the-art training in the design and execution of Experimental Medicine studies, equipping trainee clinicians with the knowledge and skills to lead Experimental Medicine studies in the future.
EMI is open to further industry partners for one-off or multiple clinical PhD studentships and/or lectureships.
PhD studentships
EMI PhD studentships are fully funded posts of 3 years in length. Funding for these posts is mainly provided by the industrial partner with possibility of co-sponsoring from the University and NIHR Cambridge BRC. It covers the student’s stipend, university tuition and college fees as well as a fixed amount towards relevant education, training and travel. Where appropriate, PhD studentships may include a research stay with the industry partner. The programme does not provide funding for the PhD research component. This is sourced separately by the academic and/or industrial partner.
Clinical Lectureships
Academic Clinical Lecturer (ACL) posts are funded 50% by Cambridge University Hospitals and 50% by the EMI programme, mainly through an industry partner. This ensures that each CL has the opportunity to spend 50% protected time on academic research with the remaining 50% in clinical training, during which time clinical competencies must be met. CL posts are funded for up to four years. A programme allowance is included for relevant education, training and travel, however post-holders are expected to seek independent funding to support their chosen programme of research. All trainees must hold a PhD when appointed.
