Student medics encouraged to try research

The latest issue is online and a PDF is available to download - Inspire journal autumn 2017

It includes reports on complications from breast implants, the use of protein supplements, managing anxiety, as well as articles on aortic dissection, obesity and killer whales kept in captivity.

There are also careers pieces, conference reports and interviews with leading researchers.

The journal is edited by students and publishes articles about research by students. It is part of the Inspire scheme, funded by the Wellcome Trust and administered by the Academy of Medical Sciences, which encourages student doctors, dentists and vets to consider a career in research.

“I am pleased to see the journal go from strength to strength under the excellent guidance of this year’s editorial team,” said Amy Hough, a medical student at the University of Exeter.

“It has been a fantastic opportunity to provide a well-deserved platform for the huge breadth of student research across the South West.”

Professor Tamsin Ford, Inspire lead at the University of Exeter, said: “The Inspire scheme has been hugely important in providing opportunities for our students to experience research.

“The collaborative work by students across the four schools to produce such a high quality journal is really encouraging to see.”

The first issue of the journal appeared in 2016, following a competition to appoint seven senior editors to set up the journal as a platform for publication of student project results, as well as to have direct experience of academic peer review.

A new team of 10 editors came together to create the latest issue, which will be launched at the National Intercalators Conference on 28 October at the University of Cardiff.

Since the Inspire scheme began in 2013, the South West Inspire partnership has supported more than 90 vacation studentships, as well as prize awards.

Together with local matched funding, this has enabled students to undertake research projects under the supervision of senior scientists and clinicians.

To join the mailing list or submit an article idea, email the editors of Inspire Student Health Sciences Research Journal: inspirestudentjournal@gmail.com