FAQs
How do you define the environment?
We have a very broad take on the environment. We are interested in the cumulative experiences and exposures that shape our health and disease. From the built environment, pollution, water quality, food, chemicals, pathogens, green spaces and climate change, through to the social environments in which people live and their cultural experiences, we want Fellows who tackle the environment from multiple angles.
I am interested in genetics – is this out of scope?
We are interested in how the environment shapes health and disease. But our genes and environments interact, and the environment may modify the expression of genes through epigenetic mechanisms, so genetics remains relevant – as long as you include study of the some environmental interactions.
Are clinical studies and laboratory studies both in scope?
Absolutely – and much else besides. Some Fellows may spend their whole Fellowship doing fundamental discovery science in a lab at QMUL; others will be undertaking qualitative research, epidemiology or co-design projects; and others may leap into a totally new discipline through the wide range of arts and humanities research groups at QMUL.
Is there a particular focus of the environment that HEAL focuses on?
We are particularly interested in two aspects of research: the mechanisms through which the environment shapes health and disease; and finding equitable and effective solutions to modifying people’s environments, or tailoring their care to the environments in which they live, to enhance health. Most Fellows will study one or more of these aspects, although it is not essential.
Does my project have to be interdisciplinary?
We encourage it, but we do not mandate it. HEAL is trying to encourage a breadth of study, and is keen to bring together disciplines which often don’t work together, to provide a multiple angles on how people’s environments shape their risk of health and disease. It very much depends on the research question you are trying to address, and we recognise that not all projects will be interdisciplinary.
Which Faculty will I be based in?
You will be based in the Faculty of your primary supervisor, which could be Medicine and Dentistry, Science & Engineering, or Humanities and Social Science. You will meet regularly with the whole HEAL cohort, regardless of your primary Faculty.
I am not a healthcare professional – am I eligible?
No, HEAL is only open to healthcare professionals, who must be registered with a professional body in UK or Republic of Ireland for the duration of the Fellowship.
Can I do clinical work during HEAL?
Yes – up to 20% of your time can be spent doing clinical work, or up to 40% if you are in a “craft” specialty like surgery.
Can I be based abroad?
Yes, HEAL is interested in how people’s environments shape their health and disease regardless of geography. Whilst most Fellows will be based in east London, there are multiple research groups at QMUL with global links, and HEAL allows you to spend time abroad undertaking your research, with overseas allowances provided.
I know exactly what project I want to do – can I apply with that project idea?
No, HEAL has a 2-stage application process. At Stage 1, we are interested in you: your background, your experience to date, and your ideas, but you do not apply with a specific project or supervisor. We ask you one question about your plans – and you can use that section to outline the ideas you have, but you will develop your project fully if you are shortlisted for Stage 2.