Aims and method: Higher specialist trainees (HSTs) in psychiatry in Ireland were recruited to complete a 21-item online questionnaire anonymously. Questions were designed to establish the research experience of HSTs in various years of training, identify perceived barriers to participation and generate potential strategies to overcome these barriers.
Results: Of 165 HSTs surveyed, 50 (30%) responded. Most respondents (58%) were in the second or third year of HST. Most (72%) were training in general adult psychiatry. Themes that emerged from analysis of the qualitative data were 'collaborative research culture', 'guidance', 'choice' and 'access to resources'. Participants felt they needed more structured guidance and regular supervision, and expressed a desire for more networking and collaboration.
Clinical implications: The need for a supportive, collaborative research culture within psychiatry was predominant among responses. Structured research programmes and access to resources may facilitate a more positive research culture and should be considered as part of the training curriculum.
Keywords: Qualitative research; academic psychiatry; curriculum; education and training; trainee research.