Challenges and solutions for diabetes early career researchers in the COVID-19 recovery: Perspectives of the Diabetes UK Innovators in Diabetes

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has put diabetes at the forefront of conversation. The prevalence of type 2 diabetes in the United Kingdom is high1 and has links to adverse COVID-19 outcomes.2 Research investigating the links between these two public health issues are moving at pace. However, the pandemic has seen early career researchers (ECRs) in diabetes face professional and personal challenges that have the potential to slow down or derail bourgeoning careers. These challenges are not unique to ECRs working in the diabetes field—and they compound a challenging decade that included the fallout from an economic crisis and uncertainties arising from a protracted Brexit.

In May 2021, 15 ECRs gathered online as part of the Diabetes UK annual Innovators in Diabetes (IDia) training programme. A discussion on the career challenges faced and possible solutions to facilitate a healthy future for diabetes ECRs was initiated and facilitated by senior leaders in diabetes research. This letter summarises the themes from that discussion.