The National Institute of Academic Anaesthesia is committed to the academic advancement of trainees whether they are purely clinically orientated or future physician-scientists. We believe that involvement in academic activity is a cornerstone of anaesthetic training and this leads to improved clinical care at both a local and national level. Anaesthetists already have deep roots in scientific knowledge through studying for the Fellowship of the Royal College of Anaesthetists and the clinical application of science. Building on these foundations, anaesthetic trainees are well positioned to be involved in research focused on the improvement of patient care. However while ability is not a question, sometimes opportunity is a limiting factor. We hope to increase the opportunities of anaesthetic trainees to be involved in high impact research through coordination of information streams concerning funding and fellowship opportunities. Through organised education, meetings and courses or access to grants and awards or resources we hope to highlight and focus the academic training opportunities within anaesthesia. Great advancements in patient safety have been achieved in anaesthesia since its inception in 1846, through continuing research and development, anaesthesia can continue to drive improvements in perioperative and critical care and its related specialties.