What next for gastroenterology and hepatology trainee networks? Lessons from our surgical colleagues

The initiation of trainee research networks dates back to 2008 when a regional group of General Surgeons developed the West Midlands Research Collaborative.1 From these origins, the trainee-led collaborative research model generated national and international support, across a broad range of medical specialties to involve researchers of various levels from consultants to medical students.2 3 Since then, many successful collaboratives have delivered high-impact studies,4 benefiting patients and the people delivering this research. The growth of research collaborations became prominent, with the successful completion of multiple large national and international studies, and opportunities for research teams and leaders to train and develop. Some noticeable examples of high-quality trainee-led research were the Reduction of Surgical Site Infection Using Several Novel Interventions (ROSSINI) trial, which recruited 760 participants from 21 sites,3 and the Single Use Negative pRessure dressing for Reduction In Surgical site infection following Emergency laparatomy (SUNRRISE) study,5 which was the first National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) portfolio randomised controlled trial to have a trainee as the named grant holder and has currently recruited 840 patients from across the UK and Australia. The overarching aim of these trainee-led research networks is to deliver high-quality multicentre audits or research projects that can have a positive impact on patient care. Furthermore, they are a novel opportunity for mentorship, whereby trainees can receive support and guidance from senior investigators, yet still lead all phases of their projects (conception, design, delivery and dissemination). The results of a survey among gastroenterology trainees gauging their interests in research and academic training published in 2019 showed that over 90% of trainees felt that the development of trainee research collaboratives was important.6 We believe the strengths of the trainee networks are they facilitate trainee-led, designed and delivered projects. This can contribute towards e-portfolio …