My experience at the NIHR ARC South London Research Leadership Academy

I completed the NIHR Applied Research Collaboration (ARC) South London’s Research Leadership Academy in June 2024, and the learnings from this experience remain with me. Designed and led by Professor Priscilla Harries and her dedicated team, including Aoife Keohane and Bernadette Corrigan, this transformative programme shaped my approach to research leadership and project management. I am especially grateful for the team’s kindness in accommodating my late entry to the programme, which allowed me to learn alongside an inspiring group of professionals.

Why I Joined the Leadership Academy

In November 2023, I began my research career as a research assistant with the Southwest London Integrated Care System’s Research Cafe Study, funded by NHS England. This Research Engagement Network Project was a key step in my career, focusing on creating accessible research engagement platforms for underrepresented groups. My background includes five years as a physiotherapist in India, working in both public and private sectors, including with Goa’s Directorate of Health Services, where I contributed to the National Programme for Health Care of Elderly. This experience deepened my passion for public health and motivated me to pursue an MSc in Public Health at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine in 2022.

Since October 2024, I have been working as a project officer with King’s Improvement Science, focusing on mixed-methods quality improvement and implementation projects across the King’s Health Partners and the South East London Integrated Care System. Additionally, as project manager for the South West London Research Support Network, I collaborate with the South West London Integrated Care System to foster diversity in research participation and engagement. Committed to health equity and community involvement, I joined the Academy to build on my skills in leading projects that bridge research and impactful public involvement.

Photo: Sapna Kurade, second from right at the celebration event at the end of the Leadership Academy.

Core learnings and practical applications

The Academy’s lectures introduced me to various aspects of research leadership, each greatly relevant to my work. Fifteen lectures were offered, examples included:

Clinical academia in the NHS
Dr Gita Ramdharry’s highlighted the bridge between clinical practice and research, underscoring the role of evidence-based interventions in improving patient outcomes - a principle I integrate into my public health work.
International partnership building
Professor Richard Harding’s discussed strategic global health partnerships, particularly in the context of palliative care. His insights on cross-border collaborations reinforced my appreciation for international partnership-building, which is vital in advancing inclusive research.
Forming and running research collaborations and consortia
Professor Sir Graham Thornicroft shared effective strategies for establishing and sustaining research collaborations. His emphasis on the “best team” approach and consortium longevity provided practical guidance for interdisciplinary partnerships, a key focus in my current roles.
Contracting and project management
Irrum Afzal detailed the legal and financial responsibilities in research projects, focusing on contract types and project monitoring. These skills are instrumental in managing collaborative projects within the NHS, where clear agreements and accountability are essential.
Costing and managing grants
Jane Haycocks explained budgeting and grant applications, covering essential aspects like Full Economic Costing and funder guidelines. This knowledge helps me understand the importance of strong and compliant grant proposals to sustain public health projects.
Creating research impact with Theory of Change
Professor Fiona Jones introduced the Theory of Change as a framework to link project activities to long-term outcomes. This model supports creating measurable impact within projects, ensuring that research directly benefits the communities involved.
Diverse and inclusive involvement
Savitri Hensman and Professor Tushna Vandrevala emphasised the need for equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in research, a central focus in my work in the Research Support Network. Here, I work to build trust and inclusivity within underserved communities, fostering a research culture that truly reflects diverse voices.

Insights gained through mentorship

One of the most valuable aspects of the Academy was the opportunity to learn from distinguished leaders, whose guidance has had a lasting impact on my journey. At the Academy we received guidance on how to approach a mentor and I was fortunate enough to secure more than one:

Professor Kevin Fenton, President, Faculty of Public Health Professor Fenton’s advice on aligning personal values with professional goals and embracing humility was deeply inspiring. His encouragement to seek diverse experiences, to bridge theory with practice has helped me refine my public health leadership approach.
Professor Bola Owolabi, Director, National Healthcare Inequalities Improvement Programme, NHSE Observing Professor Owolabi’s leadership during a NICE meeting reinforced the power of authentic leadership. Her encouragement to identify gaps and pursue opportunities that energize me was a timely reminder to stay grounded in work that aligns with my values.
Professor Dr Durka Dougall, Acting Deputy Chair, Kingston Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and Chief Executive, The Centre for Population Health Professor Dougall’s mentorship was incredibly supportive, especially in helping me acknowledge the challenges of immigrating to a new country and transitioning careers and how these experiences shape one’s professional identity. She encouraged me to confront imposter syndrome, celebrate my achievements and recognise the unique perspectives I bring to my work.

Huge thanks to all of my mentors including Cynthia Bullock, Deputy Director, Healthy Ageing Challenge, Innovate UK and Andrew Eyres, Corporate Director, Integrated Health and Care, Lambeth Council, SE London ICB for their guidance and time. People are often more willing to help than we imagine, and even the seemingly “unreachable” can be within reach when we show enthusiasm and proactiveness.

Photo: Alaa Albawab, PhD candidate, Kingston university, Sapna Kurade, Shukrat Salisu-Olatunji, PhD candidate, University of Leicester.

Reflections on Action Learning Sets

My Action Learning Set members offered a supportive environment where I could share challenges and receive constructive feedback. Their empathy and open-mindedness have been especially meaningful during this pivotal career phase, reinforcing the importance of community in overcoming professional as well as personal obstacles.

Encouraging future leaders to join the Academy

The path forward is one of continuous learning, grounded in the principles of humility, integrity, and community. I am grateful for the experiences and connections from the Academy that will guide my future undertakings. and I am excited to apply these lessons to promote inclusive research that drives health equity and positive change for all.

The path forward is one of continuous learning, grounded in the principles of humility, integrity, and community. I am grateful for the experiences and connections from the Academy that will guide my future undertakings. and I am excited to apply these lessons to promote inclusive research that drives health equity and positive change for all

Sapna Kurade

For anyone considering the Research Leadership Academy, I highly recommend it. It offers an excellent blend of skill-building, mentorship, and peer support, essential for those aspiring to lead impactful initiatives.