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Using internships to build research capacity and capability in small doses

Lookup NU author(s): Linda TinklerORCiD

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Abstract

© 2026 MA Healthcare Limited. Research internships funded by a trust charity build research capacity among nurses, midwives and allied health professionals (NMAHPs) through a structured 6-month programme combining mentorship, peer support and tailored training. Since its inception, 45 NMAHPs have completed it, with seven currently enrolled. Interns pursue research aligned to their roles, producing diverse outputs and progressing professionally, securing National Institute for Health Research fellowships, postgraduate qualifications and internal funding. Many have become research champions within their departments, fostering a growing community of research-active NMAHPs. The programme has consistently enhanced confidence, skills and motivation, with interns describing it as ‘invaluable’ and ‘eye-opening’. A pilot evaluation using the VICTOR tool in 2024 indicated early positive impacts, and a formal mixed-methods evaluation is now under way. The internship model fosters a sustainable research culture, supports clinical academic pathways and enhances research leadership across multidisciplinary teams.

Publication metadata

Author(s): Pope F, Storey M, Faraday J, Orwin R, Tinkler L

Publication type: Article

Publication status: Published

Journal: British Journal of Nursing

Year: 2026

Volume: 35

Issue: 14

Pages: 712-715

Print publication date: 16/07/2026

Online publication date: 22/07/2026

Acceptance date: 31/01/2026

ISSN (print): 0966-0461

ISSN (electronic): 2052-2819

Publisher: MA Healthcare Ltd

URL: https://doi.org/10.12968/bjon.2025.0548

DOI: 10.12968/bjon.2025.0548

PubMed id: 42485167

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