Anyone who is thinking about going into research should do it. There is so much support out there if you’re willing to put the time in. I would say have a research question ready. Don’t worry if it changes a lot, it’s quite common as you’re developing your proposal.
If you don’t have a research question yet, think about the topic you would like to explore. Make use of the resources around you, speak to people, go to the library and do some reading to find out what research has already been done.
Contact your local Research Design Service, their advice is invaluable and they can help put you on the right path. We’re lucky in Cambridge, not only do we have good mentors but facilities such as the Clinical School library where I could work, join courses and seek advice. Look at funding, particularly the BRC and ACT fellowship that gives you the time to put your research application together.
Even though you may get knocked back a couple of times, don’t take it to heart. I found with rejection I learnt a lot about the application process and that is something that has been really useful and helped me with the next application.
Find yourself some good support and a mentor. Here in Cambridge I was supervised by Professor Christi Deaton, who is helping more nurses, midwives and AHP’s begin their research career. From my fellowship to now, Christi has been a great source of help with my applications and supported my doctoral studies.
My other doctoral supervisor, Professor Roman Romero-Ortuno, provided lots of support right from the beginning with my applications, publishing my first papers and helping with my doctoral and post-doctoral work. I very much doubt I’d be here without their help, and they have both been incredible.