As part of our commitment to building a leading research environment, we have a core aim to train and develop the next generation of researchers in advanced cardiac therapies.
As the field of gene therapies to stimulate cardiac repair is emerging and rapidly evolving, specialist training opportunities remain limited.
Through REACT, we address this gap by convening leading experts from the UK and internationally to deliver a pioneering programme of training and career support. This spans the full spectrum of roles – from doctoral researchers and technicians to postdoctoral fellows, early career researchers and senior leaders.
Our approach to career development is grounded in the same principles of inclusivity and equality that shape our broader approaches to research culture and equity, diversity and inclusion. We proudly support the Technician Commitment and the Researcher Development Concordat, ensuring that every member of REACT has access to meaningful and tailored development opportunities.
Our approach to capacity building consists of four main components:
1. Core training and career development
REACT staff and students are able to access a wide range of bioscience and professional development courses across our three partner universities. This covers, for instance, training in quantitative skills, lab techniques, data management, and industry-relevant topics.
We are conducting an annual training needs analysis to ensure we are offering relevant and personalised support and inclusive access to opportunities.
2. Innovative specialist training in Advanced Therapies
New REACT-led courses address key training gaps in areas such as RNA therapies and viral vector design. Interdisciplinary primers and masterclasses equip researchers from a variety of backgrounds with essential skills. Through industry engagement and lab visits, participants gain real-world insights and opportunities for cross-sector collaboration.
Our specialist training programme is tailored to strengthen capacity in advanced cardiac therapies whilst directly advancing REACT’s research objectives.
3. Broader training for future challenges
We hold an annual symposium to promote collaboration and career development and are building towards hosting regular international research seminars. Our biennial summer school provides in-depth training in cardiovascular biology, repair, and regeneration, integrating science, ethics, policy, and public engagement.
These initiatives foster a shared understanding of emerging challenges and stimulate cross-disciplinary research collaborations.
4. Sharing good practice
We are evaluating our training and development activities and sharing insights with national partners and networks.
This ongoing learning informs future programme design and supports sector-wide improvements in capacity building