I am delighted to have taken on the role of Research Programme Manager for the ECLIPSE study. My professional career began in 1989 when I qualified as a Registered General Nurse and worked for 4 years in the fields of General Medicine, Haematology, Neurology and Gastroenterology at New Cross Hospital, Wolverhampton, West Midlands. During this time, I also completed a Diploma in Professional Studies in Nursing and subsequently a Bachelor of Science Degree in Health Studies at the University of Wolverhampton, on a part time basis. This academic experience led to my interest in clinical research and in 1994 I took up the post of Clinical Development and Research Sister based at the Renal Unit at North Staffordshire Hospital, whilst working with Professor Simon Davies in the Peritoneal Dialysis research setting. I graduated with a PhD from Keele University Post Graduate Medicine Department during year 2003. My thesis examined quality of life outcomes in patients being treated with different renal replacement therapies.
My research career during the work of my PhD and since has expanded into different pathways with experience working as a Clinical Research Associate for Baxter Healthcare, Study Co-ordinator for studies hosted by the West Midlands Stroke Research Network, and as a Research Manager across the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), West Midlands North Clinical Research Network. Whilst in the latter role I also became a network wide lead facilitator for the NIHR Good Clinical Practice Training Programme. Since year 2012, I have worked in a study managerial role for Keele University sponsored studies which require both UK wide and international collaboration. Initially, I was responsible for clinical studies within the peritoneal dialysis setting. Subsequently, I became a Senior Trials Manager in Keele Clinical Trials Unit for 5 years, with responsibilities for a portfolio of studies in both primary and secondary care health settings, whilst working simultaneously with the Institute for Applied Clinical Sciences. More recently, and in my current role I also work with the Renal Research Group.
In my free time I enjoy voluntary work at our local dog rescue centre. I also help fundraise for a children’s charity which supports seriously and terminally ill children and their families
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