Resident Doctors

Interested in nephrology but not sure where it could take you? UKKA membership provides opportunities to explore the specialty, connect with professionals working across kidney care and gain insight into the wide range of career paths available.

Whether you are considering a future in nephrology, developing a special interest in kidney medicine or simply looking to broaden your knowledge, UKKA membership can help you build connections, access educational opportunities and become part of the wider kidney community.

My interest in nephrology began during medical school, where I really enjoyed learning about kidney physiology. That initial interest grew during IMT, particularly on the medical take, where I saw some of the breadth of renal presentations, interesting pathology, and multisystem disease. Wanting to explore the specialty further, I attended the UKKA Nephrology Taster Course.

The Taster Day provided a great introduction to the specialty and connected me with peers and current trainees, which led directly to my first opportunity to get involved in renal research. Following the event, I joined the UKKA Kidney Starter Network, a group supporting early-career doctors with an interest in nephrology. My involvement has grown over time, and I now have the privilege of serving as Co-Chair of the network.

For anyone considering a career in nephrology, I would recommend joining the UKKA and the Kidney Starter Network- it is never too early! Members get access to great resources, educational opportunities, and discounted courses, including UK Kidney Week– a great opportunity to present any projects you have been working on!

Overall, the biggest benefit for me has been joining the renal community. Meeting people who are willing to share their experiences and support those earlier in their careers has been invaluable. You don’t need your career mapped out before getting involved; attending a taster day, taking a course, or joining a network is a great way to explore the specialty and see where it might take you.