Research Experience and Background
I was awarded a Stroke Association postgraduate Fellowship in 2013 and completed my PhD at the University of Manchester in 2018. As part of my PhD, I developed a psychometric scale to measure the impact of developing a positive therapeutic alliance in aphasia rehabilitation, which is now being translated internationally. Following my PhD, I secured an NIHR postdoctoral bridging award in 2020 and an NIHR Advanced Fellowship in 2023. As part of this fellowship, I am currently developing and evaluating the feasibility of a novel respiratory-swallow intervention for people with head and neck cancer. I have developed a comprehensive set of research skills spanning the full research pathway, from early-stage idea generation through to complex intervention development and feasibility testing. My research experience includes designing and conducting mixed‑methods studies, developing and refining complex interventions, coordinating work across multiple study sites, and integrating meaningful public and patient involvement at every stage. With additional expertise in feasibility study design, process evaluation, consensus‑building approaches, and qualitative and quantitative research, I am well positioned to support projects as they move from early ideas into applied, real‑world practice. I currently mentor research-active healthcare professionals and supervise pre-doctoral and doctoral students at the University of Liverpool. As a mentor, I support mentees to explore new ideas, build confidence, and develop the skills they need to progress, whether that is shaping a research question, planning a project, writing an application, or finding the right next step. My aim is always to empower mentees to recognise their strengths, navigate challenges, and feel excited about the possibilities of a clinical academic career.