Junior clinical academic psychiatrists in Australia: The University of New South Wales initiative

Abstract

Objective: We examined current pathways of training for junior clinical academic psychiatrists in Australia. An initiative of the School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, is described from the perspective of two junior clinical academics. Conclusions: Australia has limited defined clinical academic pathways for psychiatrists when compared internationally. Numerous challenges for junior psychiatrists entering academia include tensions between clinical and academic roles, reduced remuneration, difficulty building a competitive track record and a scarcity of funding. Potential solutions lie with universities and local health districts partnering to fund clinical academic roles and offering flexible entry points across specialty training. Fostering research engagement in junior psychiatrists will develop the next generation of clinical academics with benefit for clinical and academic domains.