New Taskforce Launched to Transform UK Medical Science Careers

The Academy of Medical Sciences has announced the establishment of a new initiative, the UK Medical Science Careers Taskforce, aimed at addressing significant gaps within clinical and non-clinical career pathways. Co-chaired by Professor Sir Munir Pirmohamed from the University of Liverpool and Dr. Tony Wood, Chief Scientific Officer at GlaxoSmithKline, this taskforce seeks to enhance the future of medical science careers in the United Kingdom.

This initiative emerges during a transformative period marked by rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, data science, and innovative therapeutics. These developments have the potential to significantly improve patient outcomes and elevate the UK’s status as a global leader in life sciences. The taskforce’s objectives align with the ambitions outlined in the UK Government’s Life Sciences Sector Plan and the 10-Year Health Plan for England, which emphasize the necessity of a skilled workforce to leverage these opportunities.

The current landscape for the UK’s medical science workforce is concerning. Over the past decade, vacant clinical academic positions have surged by 71%, while the number of researchers at senior lecturer level has decreased by 24%. Alarmingly, nearly one-third of clinical research staff are contemplating leaving their positions within the next five years. The taskforce aims to develop a comprehensive career pathways map by December 2026, drawing on evidence, stakeholder consultations, and international comparisons.

Rather than duplicating existing frameworks, the taskforce will consolidate existing data to identify gaps, misalignments, and missed opportunities across various roles in medical science, including clinical academics, biomedical researchers, data scientists, and professionals in the MedTech and pharmaceutical sectors. Special focus will be placed on understanding the barriers that hinder movement between the NHS, academia, and industry, as well as on the skills required to effectively engage with emerging technologies.

Dr. Tony Wood emphasized the importance of adapting to the evolving landscape of medical science. He stated, “We’re at a pivotal moment for medical science as cutting-edge technology and innovative science come together in new ways to transform the field. Capitalising on this requires modern medical science careers that foster the right skills and enable people to thrive while building rewarding careers that help us tackle the health challenges we face today and in the future.”

Similarly, Professor Sir Munir Pirmohamed underscored the necessity of supporting the next generation of medical scientists, who will lead future innovations. He remarked, “If we are serious about realising our ambitions, we need a clear map of where the gaps lie and a plan for how to address them.”

Further emphasizing the urgency of the situation, Professor Andrew Morris, President of the Academy of Medical Sciences, noted that the UK’s reputation in medical science is at risk without proactive measures. He stated, “Sustaining this position requires investment in the talented people who make it possible. The pipeline of clinical academics is under serious strain… Without concerted action, the UK risks ceding ground to countries that are making workforce development a deliberate national priority.”

The Academy of Medical Sciences has a history of facilitating collaboration among diverse stakeholders to instigate systemic change in medical sciences. In September 2025, a significant summit convened by the Academy garnered commitments from 40 leaders across the UK health sector, including organizations such as the Medical Research Council, Wellcome, and Cancer Research UK, to address the decline in clinical academic positions.

To ensure comprehensive input, the taskforce will engage a wide range of health system partners, including research charities, government departments, trade associations, royal colleges, NHS representatives, regulators, and pharmaceutical industry leaders. An open consultation on identifying key gaps and potential solutions is expected to commence in spring 2026, inviting contributions from researchers, clinicians, data scientists, technologists, research technicians, and other professionals involved in medical science.

This initiative represents a crucial step towards securing a sustainable and thriving future for medical science careers in the UK. The collective efforts of the taskforce and its partners aim to create a more cohesive and effective career landscape that meets the evolving demands of the field.