In this section
The National Breast Imaging Academy (NBIA) has been established to address the breast imaging workforce shortages in England, and to raise the profile of breast imaging.
The NBIA breast radiology fellowship programme, launched in September 2019, is a new and exciting training opportunity which has been developed in conjunction with several leading breast units across the country. This is designed to promote excellence in breast imaging, challenge the most talented trainees and provide the leaders, educators and researchers of the future.
We have recruited five cohorts of fellows since the programme started in September 2019 and will be recruiting to cohort six in 2024.
What are the aims of the fellowship programme?
- Offer a gold-standard training opportunity in breast radiology
- Use the pooled expertise and experience of the breast imaging community to provide enhanced training in specific aspects of breast imaging
- Equip talented trainees to become the leaders, educators and researchers of the future
Who can apply?
- UK radiologists who have achieved their CCT
- UK radiology trainees who will have achieved their CCT prior to the start of the fellowship
- Overseas radiologists with equivalent qualifications (must also meet International Sponsorship Scheme criteria if applicable)
What is the recruitment process?
Applicants will undergo a competitive centralised recruitment process. Candidates will be provided with a list of eligible host sites and asked to rank the host sites in order of preference. Successful candidates will be matched to host sites in order of interview scores.
What is the structure of the fellowship?
NBIA fellowships are specifically designed to be single subspecialty training opportunity in breast. Fellows will train in various aspects of breast imaging whilst supporting radiology service delivery. Training will be supplemented by fully-funded study blocks where all fellows will meet to receive expert teaching and benefit from networking opportunities.
Fellows who are interested in developing specific skills in research, leadership and teaching will be encouraged and supported to do so. NBIA will facilitate access to opportunities to progress in these areas. Fellows will also have access to NBIA online resources.
On call is not a requirement of the fellowship however if there is a service need this will be negotiated locally and paid for by the host site.
How are these posts funded?
The NBIA has secured funding from HEE towards c.50% of the basic salary costs of each fellow. Eligible breast units wishing to host a fellow must secure the remaining funding.
What is the duration of the fellowship?
Fellowships are for 12 months if working full time, or for the less than full time equivalent duration.
When is the next intake of fellows?
Dates for our next round of recruitment is to be confirmed. Please check back here for updates.
Can my breast unit become a host centre?
Yes, subject to:
- Meeting the host centre eligibility criteria
- Securing the remaining funding for the post (the NBIA can provide you with a template business case to assist with this process if required)
- Having sufficient training capacity to host a fellow in addition to existing trainees
Please note, if your unit is approved as a potential host centre, it is not guaranteed that a fellow will be placed at your unit, as this is dependent on successful candidates choosing to be placed at your breast unit.
How do we apply to become a host centre?
- Email: breastacademy@mft.nhs.uk
- Complete an eligibility checklist and hospital application form, which will be reviewed by the NBIA.
- Secure funding from your Trust to make up the remaining salary costs.
How can I find out more?
Email: breastacademy@mft.nhs.uk