The programme, run in partnership with the UK Health Data Research Alliance and 10,000 Black Interns, is helping to tackle the underrepresentation of Black people within science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers by providing opportunities for them to work on health data science projects within some of the UK’s leading health, research and academic organisations.

The programme’s Opening Ceremony began with an uplifting performance by The Black Voices Quintet, led by Carol Pemberton MBE, who had interns, host organisations and the programme’s advisory board on their feet in appreciation.

Keynote speaker, renowned sociologist and youngest Black Cambridge Prof Jason Arday – a highly-respected scholar of race, inequality and education – gave a powerful speech about overcoming his personal challenges to achieve success.

The attendees also heard from a panel of past interns and health data experts who shared key insights into the world of health data with tips on how to make the most of a placement.

From Monday 3 July 2023, an impressive 95 interns will start their eight-week placement with 54 host organisations.

Christianah Ajala, intern with the Health Informatics Centre, University of Dundee, says:

“This programme has given me an opportunity to put my theory to use, get hands-on experience with real-world health data, and work with experts to provide better health solutions. I’m excited to get started!” 

The interns will not only learn about health data science in action but will also carry out their own clearly defined research projects with their host orgsnation.

Louis MacGregor Head of Data Insights, at The Brain Tumour Charity says:

“We are so excited to be part of HDR UK’s Black Internship Programme for 2023. We’re very impressed by the calibre of the applicants sent through to us!”

The Black Internship Programme is just one of HDR UK’s initiatives that support our belief that health data science should be as effective as possible in serving and reflecting the needs of the entire UK population.

Tammy Palmer, Head of People, Health Data Research UK (HDR UK) says:

“We are thrilled to welcome this year’s cohort of talented interns to the programme which is going from strength to strength. It is incredibly exciting for us to once again be supporting the next generation of health data scientists. A huge thank you to all of our host organisations for their support and commitment to helping ensure the programme’s success again this year.”

This programme is aimed at Black people who are either studying an undergraduate degree or who have recently graduated from any UK university.

Expressions of interest from interns and host organisations are now being accepted for the class of 2024. More information here.