Throughout October, we're showcasing our Nottinghamshire Healthcare colleagues, and the path they have taken into research. To discover Your Path in Research, visit the National Institute of Health Research website for information and inspiration.
Kathryn, an Occupational Therapist (OT) and Research Delivery Officer, talks about her passion for research and how it has given her the opportunity to work in a wide range of clinical areas.
Who or what inspired you to get involved in research?
I have always been interested in research, but didn't really become involved until I had been practicing as an Occupational Therapist (OT) for around 8 years. As healthcare professionals, we should provide evidence-based practice. I always strived to achieve this, but often found that robust evidence was limited, and I wanted to be involved in answering some of the questions we have.
I was given the opportunity to work on a study looking at promoting activity and independence in people with an early diagnosis of dementia. I worked as an OT delivering the intervention, and this gave me a taste for what research is all about - I really enjoyed it. I later decided to take a research delivery role within the Clinical Research Network (CRN) and have been involved in the delivery of a range of portfolio studies in the East Midlands region.
How have you involved patients in your research?
Many participants are keen to be involved in research, either to improve their care or to improve our understanding for future generations. I think it is important we support them in this and provide as many opportunities as possible.
How has working on research projects changed your day to day practice?
Working with the CRN in research delivery, has allowed me to broaden my skills and work on studies in different specialities. I've worked in sexual health, cardiology, diabetes and infectious diseases. It's great to have had the opportunity to work alongside different clinicians and study teams who have a passion for their subject area.
How does research make a difference to the NHS? (Or to your service?)
During the pandemic I worked on the ISARIC and SIREN studies, both of which contributed to our understanding of COVID-19. It has been amazing to see what can be achieved through research, and I am very proud to say I have been part of the NIHR’s response to the pandemic.
How would you encourage your colleagues to get involved with research?
I would definitely encourage health and social care professionals to become involved in research. It could be through suggesting ideas for a research topic, leading your own research, supporting the delivery of research or signposting your patients/service users to studies that may be of interest to them. It’s never too early or too late to get involved! Make links with your local research department or CRN, as there are lots of networks and training you can access to broaden your understanding and see if it’s something you want to pursue.
What's your research ambition?
I have learnt so much on my relatively short journey along this path. But there is still so much to learn, which is why I love working in research so much. I love being involved in studies that could improve care in the future.
To discover what your path in research might be, take a look online or email