Description
Arash Angadji, the Chief Executive of Orthopedic Research UK (ORUK), opens a discussion outlining the charity's mission to support medical research and education, particularly in musculoskeletal (MSK) health. Based in London, ORUK not only funds research but also assists start-ups in bringing their ideas to the clinical forefront. The organization emphasizes partnerships and inclusivity in its research approaches, aiming to alleviate burdens on individuals and the healthcare system.
Angadji reflects on the history of the charity, mentioning its origins as the Furlong Research Charitable Foundation, founded by Ronnie Furlong, and the subsequent rebranding to Orthopedic Research UK in 2011. He highlights the progress made since then, including the processing of over 1,000 research applications and the funding of £12 million across numerous projects.
However, Angadji shares concerns about declining research submissions, especially following financial challenges faced between 2016 and 2018, and compounded by the COVID-19 pandemic's impact. He discusses a collaboration with various institutions, revealing a trend where many partnerships yield single-digit submissions.
The presentation points to systemic pressures within the healthcare research environment, including workforce disputes and the attractiveness of clinical research compared to clinical practice. Angadji expresses the need for urgent action to address these concerns, referencing a recent House of Lords report that warns of a declining number of clinical academics.
Despite mixed feedback from various charities on this trend, ORUK is committed to diagnosing the issues at hand and strategizing solutions.