Briefly, tell us about your background and career up to this point.
My undergraduate degree was in Criminology and Sociology and I have a masters in Research Methods in Sociology. I realised early on that I enjoyed working with quantitative data and finding ways to communicate research findings. Before joining King’s, I worked in the Social Disadvantage Research Centre at Oxford University where I was trained as an analyst and learnt how to handle large routinely collected datasets.
What first drew you to King’s?
I came for the world-leading reputation, but stayed for the sense of community at the Cicely Saunders Institute where I have worked since 2011, the fast-paced nature of the work and the commitment to improving care for patients and families.
How did you find it moving between professional services and research roles in the Faculty?
Being executive assistant to Professor Higginson meant that I had a seat at some very interesting tables. I learnt a lot and gathered experience that I probably wouldn't have had in a junior research role. I had worked in a research role before joining King’s as part of the professional services team, so the transition was always in mind for me. With a bit of luck, a short-term job can be a foot in the door that leads to something much more.
What support and encouragement did you have from colleagues and other PGR students?
I have had incredible support from supervisors and line managers, and excellent peer support as well. There are some key people who have been instrumental in my career and many others who I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to meet and share ideas with. I’m always amazed at how generous people are with their time and expertise and I draw a lot of motivation from discussions with clinical colleagues about the care they provide.
What would you say to someone looking to develop and grow within the Faculty but unsure about where to start?
Take advantage of the training on offer and keep an eye out for opportunities to grow your expertise and collaborate beyond your immediate role or project. Find the things that motivate you and identify colleagues with similar interests.
What is your favourite thing about working at King’s?
I work in a world-leading institute for palliative and end of life care research, in a top university, surrounded by inspirational clinical and research colleagues, with access to a global network of researchers – it’s a huge privilege.
What do you do with your time outside of work?
Food, friends, and swimming (not necessarily in that order)…whilst running around with my two girls, Emmeline (5) and Rosalind (3).
What do you think people in the Faculty would find most surprising about you?
I lived on a boat for several years in London, it was a lot of fun.
Quick fire:
Ideal dinner guest?
John Snow (the god father of epidemiology (not the guy from Game of Thrones))
Favourite place at King’s?
The roof terrace at the Cicely Saunders Institute.
Hidden talent?
I’m the queen of delicious ‘things on toast’.