REVIEW Radiography and research: A United Kingdom perspective Christina Malamateniou a,b, * a Hospital, Imperial College London, London b Directorate of Medical Imaging and Radiotherapy, School of Health Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK Received 3 November 2008; received in revised form 3 December 2008; accepted 3 December 2008 KEYWORDS Radiography; Research; Education; Role development Abstract In the past two decades radiography has experienced a wealth of changes, involving the teaching site, learning methods, curriculum, professional status, educational funding, and public expectations. Consequently this period witnessed the transition of radiography from a mainly hospital-linked to a mainly university-linked degree, from a knowledge-based disci- pline to an evidence-based practice. The early 1990s saw the establishment of graduate programs, the role expansion of radiographers, the technological advancements in medical imaging, the participation of the Radiography Schools in Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) schemes. Given the educational, technological and social advancements the engagement of radiogra- phers in research is emphasized as a priority that will bring the profession forward and help to maintain high standards of patient care. Research in radiography is a requirement, as by definition professions are expected to contribute to the body of knowledge necessary for a profession to progress. Funding, ethical considerations, mentorship, proficiency in research methodology, commitment, and ability to work in a multi-disciplinary team are just a few of the requirements for high quality radiography research. There has been a definite increase in the number of radiographers who are research aware and active as well as in the number of radiographers who pursue purely academic and research careers. However intensification of personal efforts and formulation of strategic decisions are required so that research forms an integral part of the profession. Recent developments in strengthening the research base of radiography are encouraging. ª 2008 Euro-med Congress for Radiographers. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. * Robert Steiner MRI Unit, Imaging Sciences Department, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, Imperial College, DuCane Road, W12 0HS London, UK. Tel.: þ44 20 8 383 1023. E-mail address: cm1@imperial.ac.uk 1756-1175/$34 ª 2008 Euro-med Congress for Radiographers. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. doi:10.1016/j.ejradi.2008.12.003 available at www.sciencedirect.com journal homepage: http://ees.elsevier.com/ejradi European Journal of Radiography (2009) 1,2e6