RACGP Announces Largest Ever Academic Post Cohort for 2026
05 Nov 2025
This is the largest cohort ever, and the program promises to offer an array of innovative research projects in areas crucial to the future of general practice.
The 12-month program, which is offered on a 0.5 full-time equivalent (FTE) basis, provides GP registrars with a unique opportunity to develop their research, medical education, and critical thinking skills while continuing their clinical training. The program pairs registrars with universities to carry out research projects and teach medical students, with mentorship and support from university supervisors and RACGP medical educators.
The 2026 program will see registrars explore a variety of key topics in general practice, from understanding medical students' perspectives on pursuing a GP career to analysing trends in the prescribing of GLP-1 receptor agonists for weight loss.
Research Topics and Projects
One of the standout projects for 2026 will be led by Dr Declan Twigg, a GP in training, who will research "Medical student perspectives on a career in general practice with a focus on GPs with specific interests." Dr Twigg's research will explore how better highlighting the diversity and breadth of a GP career might encourage more medical students to consider primary care. He believes that understanding the full scope of a career in general practice could inspire more students to pursue it.
“I’ve always been passionate about the career in primary care and want to contribute to changing perceptions about general practice,” Dr Twigg said. “I’m particularly interested in how we can help students see the depth and flexibility that comes with this career path.”
Dr Twigg’s research aligns with findings that suggest students often lack familiarity with the range of opportunities within general practice, which impacts their decision to pursue it.
Academic Post Opportunities
Dr Kimarnie Baskerville, another second-year GP registrar, will explore trends in the prescription of GLP-1 receptor agonists for weight loss, an increasingly popular topic in general practice. Her research, titled "Trends in the prescription of GLP-1 receptor agonists by GP registrars for weight loss: A longitudinal analysis," will help address the growing use of these medications, particularly given their high costs and the social equity challenges they present.
“I’m excited to examine this rapidly evolving area in general practice,” Dr Baskerville explained. “While these medications are widely used, there’s a lack of data on their prescription rates, especially for weight loss, which is why my research is so important.”
Future of the Program
The program offers a great opportunity for registrars to diversify their professional experience, combining clinical work with research and teaching. Dr Twigg and Dr Baskerville are just two examples of the highly motivated individuals taking part in the 2026 cohort, each eager to contribute valuable research to the general practice field while enhancing their skills as educators.
The RACGP’s Academic Post Program continues to grow, helping shape the future of general practice by fostering the next generation of clinicians who are well-rounded in both clinical and academic domains.
For more details on the 2026 program and the full list of registrars and their research projects, visit the RACGP website.
Source: Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP)
