About this course
OptimiseACF is a comprehensive resource for clinical academic fellows preparing for ACF (Academic Clinical Fellowship) and research post interviews. Created by high-scoring clinical academic trainees, the course goes beyond standard text-based resources to deliver knowledge through mock scenarios and video-based learning.
The resource covers all essential aspects of the research interview, including how to summarise and critically appraise unseen studies, research ethics principles, different study designs, and statistics. Recognising that competition ratios for research posts range from 5:1 to 30:1 — with high-scoring clinical candidates competing for places — the course focuses on how to showcase your knowledge succinctly and effectively under pressure.
Content includes:
• Mock research scenario videos with good and bad answers and examiner feedback
• Tips to score top marks in research interviews
• Ethical principles in clinical research scenarios
• Comprehensive coverage of study designs and critical appraisal techniques
• Full statistics section covering how to pick the right test for "design your own study" questions
• Written vignettes for scenario practice
• Specialist content on cardiology research (BHF/CardioWebinar videos)
• Application workshop and tips & tricks guidance
Students report strong outcomes, with many securing their first-preference posts and achieving top national rankings in specialist interviews. The course is designed for doctors preparing for academic posts who want structured, practical preparation beyond general interview guidance.
