Selection Process

The shortlisting panel will review and score anonymised applications based on the programme shortlisting criteria.

Applicants will be shortlisted on merit, irrespective of gender, age, full/part time, or country of origin, as long as they fit the eligibility criteria.

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to a face to face interview.

Application shortlisting criteria

Interview Preparation Guidance for GW4-CAT HP Applicants

Candidates invited to interview should be prepared to engage in a discussion with the panel regarding their clinical and academic background, research interests, and long-term career aspirations. The panel will assess your potential to undertake a rigorous programme of doctoral research and to develop into a future leader in clinical academia.

You will be expected to:

  • Articulate your research interests clearly and confidently, demonstrating a strong understanding of the field and its current challenges.
  • Discuss potential methodological approaches relevant to your proposed area of research, including their advantages, limitations, and suitability for addressing your research questions.
  • Explain the anticipated contribution of your PhD to the existing body of knowledge, and how it fits within the broader context of your discipline and clinical practice.
  • Demonstrate your motivation and capability to pursue a sustained period of research, including your commitment to developing a long-term career as a clinical academic.
  • In addition, you will be expected to be able to convincingly explain why the GW4-CAT HP programme is the right fit for you.

Reserve Offers

The GW4-CAT HP Programme may allocate reserve places to candidates who were deemed appointable at interview but who were not initially offered a place. These candidates may be offered a place on the GW4-CAT HP Programme should a vacancy arise or additional places become available. If you have been placed on a reserve list, you will be informed at the time your interview outcome is communicated.

Applicants shortlisted and invited for interview but unsuccessful in securing a GW4-CAT HP fellowship will receive:

  • Support from the programme manager and a programme director in building their project for one further submission to the GW4-CAT HP Programme.
  • Advice and mentorship though the application process for an equivalent research training award from other funders, such as the MRC or NIHR.

Comments are closed.