Investigating quality improvement methods in equine clinical practice

Background: The School of Veterinary Medicine and Science (SVMS) undertakes research on many key aspects of companion animals and livestock health and production. Research at the School is integrated into the University structure with established world class research in biomedical sciences within the other University Schools. Research undertaken at the School is relevant to both Veterinary Medicine and Science and Comparative and Human Medicine.

The project is co-funded by CVS, the largest veterinary service provider in the UK. CVS Equine is one of the fastest growing sectors within the group, with over 30 practices including some of the country’s leading multi-disciplinary hospitals. The B&W Equine Vets consists of four mobile equine clinics, with a central hospital facility in Breadstone, Gloucestershire.

Project description:
Quality improvement (QI) methods are designed to study the effectiveness of processes and have been successfully used for decades in other industries. It is a core tenet within the NHS, in particular through the establishment of the Healthcare Quality Improvement Partnership (HQIP) in 2008 whose aim is to promote quality in healthcare, and in particular to increase the impact that clinical audit has on healthcare. In addition to clinical audit it includes a range of other methods whereby service delivery can be evaluated and recommendations for change assessed, all with the aim of improving outcomes and provision.

The project will involve a four year PhD investigating the effectiveness of QI methods in equine practice and also barriers to their implementation. The student would split their time with approximately 50% spent at B&W Equine Vets and the remainder based at SVMS.

It is anticipated that depending on qualifications and experience the successful candidate may be able to enrol in the Population Health clinical training programme of the European College of Veterinary Public Health should they wish. They will receive training in epidemiology prior to sitting the examinations conferring Diplomate status.

Further information and Application
Applicants should have a minimum of a 2.1 undergraduate degree or a minimum of a 2.2 degree and a masters degree in Agriculture, Animal science, Veterinary Science, Nutrition or similar subjects.

A tax-free stipend of approximately £21k pa will be awarded to the successful applicant but may be different for international students. There is no extra funding available to support additional living arrangements necessary during the research period. It is recommended that all potential applicants make an informal enquiry to Dr John Burford ([Email Address Removed]) to discuss further details of the project.

Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed on 10 May 2018.

Candidates should apply online http://www.nottingham.ac.uk/pgstudy/how-to-apply/apply-online.aspx and include a CV. Any queries regarding the application process should be addressed to Postgraduate Admissions Officer, (email: [Email Address Removed])