Rheumatology scientists have dramatically improved our understanding of rheumatic diseases and advanced treatments in the past 15 years. But an ageing workforce and smaller number of physician-scientists is particularly a concern in rheumatology, according to a team of US rheumatologists.

“Continued understanding of rheumatic diseases and generation of novel therapeutics could be in jeopardy,” they wrote in their paper published in Arthritis Care and Research. 

Sending a survey to American College of Rheumatology members the researchers found that of 430 participants 97 (23%) had previously pursued a career in research but had decided to change paths.

The top reasons given for leaving a rheumatology research career were:

1. Difficulty obtaining grant/funding

2. Lack of division/department support

3. Better compensation elsewhere

4. Lack of mentorship

5. Tired of writing grants

6. Desire to move geographically and / or spend more time with family

7. Desire to spend more time in clinical care

8. Exciting opportunities in industry

9. Did not enjoy research work

Informing young investigators about how to locate and leverage resources and  find support for individual circumstances may improve the landscape for young investigators, the researchers concluded.