Academic clinical fellowships in clinical radiology

The Imaging Unit at the University of Sheffield offers a nationally recognised environment for Academic Clinical Fellows (ACFs) and Clinical Lecturers (CLs).

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Overview

Our training programme supports clinical academics in developing research careers that address real-world challenges through innovation in imaging science and technology.

Fellows join a dynamic research environment at the intersection of healthcare and engineering, with a strong emphasis on clinical translation and alignment with national priorities in artificial intelligence, digital health, and precision medicine.

Why choose Sheffield?

The Imaging unit offers

a well-supported, structured academic training pathway
access to world-class imaging platforms and expert supervision
a thriving, interdisciplinary research community
clear routes for progression to fellowships and independent research roles

Research themes

Trainees will engage in a wide range of interdisciplinary research areas, including:

Cardiothoracic and cardiac CT and MRI, with a focus on advanced techniques and applications in heart and lung disease and a major focus on pulmonary hypertension.
Hyperpolarised gas imaging for radiation-free functional lung assessment using helium-3 and xenon-129.
Liver MRI, including non-invasive assessment of liver disease.
Paediatric imaging, especially in skeletal trauma and developmental dysplasia.
Neuroimaging, with novel research exploring neurological aspects of gluten sensitivity and ataxia.
Broader development of imaging biomarkers, AI-driven diagnostic tools, and low-field MRI for accessible imaging solutions.

Trainees are supported in securing higher degrees (PhD-level), progressing to independent fellowships, and building impactful research careers.

Facilities and research environment

Sheffield provides one of the UK’s most advanced infrastructures for clinical imaging research, including:

PET-MRI, hyperpolarised MRI, low-field MRI, and photon-counting CT.
Image analysis platforms.
Over £15 million in strategic investment, including major funding from NIHR, Wellcome, and the wider industry.
Collaborative infrastructure linking the Imaging unit with:

These links provide unique opportunities for trainees to contribute to translational imaging studies with significant clinical and societal impact.

Track record and progression

Sheffield’s Imaging unit has an outstanding track record in developing the next generation of clinical academics. Previous ACFs and CLs have progressed to Senior Fellowships and Professorships, and have secured competitive funding from: