Briefly, could you tell us about your background and career before joining King’s?
I studied Human Sciences at Oxford University for my undergraduate degree which was a fascinating and varied course, spanning physiology, genetics, statistics, economics, and sociology. I then did a Masters in Public Health at Imperial College London which sparked my interest in epidemiology. Towards the end of my Masters I applied for a Research Assistant vacancy at the Cicely Saunders Institute (CSI), which was the perfect opportunity to join a vibrant team and put my learning about research into practice.
What has been your career progression since joining the Faculty?
As a research assistant at the CSI, I worked on the OPTCare Elderly project, an NIHR funded trial of community palliative care for frail older people, led by Professor Catherine Evans and Professor Irene Higginson. In this role I learnt a huge amount about the challenges of recruitment and data collection in community settings. It was also a steep learning curve navigating the sensitive areas of serious illness and palliative care.
With a growing interest in palliative care, I successfully applied for a PhD training fellowship and continued working with Irene and Catherine as my supervisors. I remained interested in the care of frail older people towards the end of life and examined the influences on frequent hospital use for this population. Once I had completed the PhD I worked as Research Associate on a couple of projects with Irene Higginson and Katherine Sleeman before applying for the position of Lecturer in Epidemiology and Palliative Care.
How did you find moving roles within the Faculty, what support and encouragement have you had from colleagues and managers?
I have received a huge amount of support from colleagues and managers throughout my time at King’s and honestly without that I would not still be working here. With a strong emphasis on personal and career development in the CSI (every week there is an hour dedicated to skills development or sharing research ideas), I have always felt supported to progress. I have also experienced much generosity from colleagues and peers whether that’s giving mock interviews or being supportive listeners over lunch!
I was encouraged to apply for the Lecturer position during my maternity leave when my first baby was a few months old and my self-confidence was wobbling. With the support from colleagues I was able to apply and was delighted to be offered the position. I think this demonstrates well the supportive culture which I have found to be invaluable.
What would you say to someone looking to develop and grow within the Faculty but unsure where to start?
I would say reach out to your colleagues – identify someone who is on the path you would like to be on and suggest you go for coffee. There’s so much experience among our colleagues, as well as willingness to help, so make the most of it!
What is your favourite thing about working at King’s?
It has to be the people - working with inspiring, supportive, and interesting colleagues.
What do you do with your time outside work?
Mostly chasing around after my two little boys who are aged 1 and 3 (they have a LOT of energy) but I also enjoy netball and running.
Quick fire:
Favourite book?
I find picking a favourite book almost impossible… A book I recently read that I loved was Crow Lake by Mary Lawson.
Favourite film?
It’s an oldie but The Graduate. Can’t go wrong with a Simon and Garfunkel soundtrack!
Favourite place on campus?
It’s got to be the CSI rooftop in the summer. Fond memories of summer parties.