A research nurse attending to a patient.

International Day of Women and Girls in Science 2023

For this year’s International Day of Women and Girls in Science, Health and Care Research Wales would like to shine a light on some of the incredible women in research. 

Jayne Goodwin, National Head of Research Delivery, Health and Care Research Wales talks about her journey into research as a nurse. Jayne said: 

I’m ambitious for the recognition of research nurses and research Allied Health Professionals and I’m committed to demonstrating their value while continuing to improve patient care within Wales.”   

Brittany Nocivelli, a talented young researcher, shares insights about her PhD project, funded by Health and Care Research Wales, which is focusing on engaging care home residents in research. Brittany said: 

I want to give care home residents a voice in research”. 

Prof Ceri Battle, became an Honorary Professor in Trauma and Emergency Care. Professor Battle, Joint Specialty Lead for Trauma and Emergency Care, who holds a Health Research Fellowship from Health and Care Research Wales allowing her to focus on her specialty chest trauma work, said it was an ‘honour’ to have been awarded the accolade, having worked in clinical academia and as the lead researcher on three national trials relating to chest injuries. 

Dr Sarah Fry became a research nurse after surviving brain tumour treatment.  At the age of 27, Dr Sarah Fry’s world was turned upside down when she found out she had a brain tumour. Whilst receiving her treatment, Sarah realised she was still alive because of research. Hear more from Sarah on Health and Care Research Wales’ ‘Where would we be without research?’ podcast, availablewherever you get your podcasts. 

Prof Monica Busse was appointed as director of the new Health and Care Research Wales Faculty.  Over the last 15 years, Professor Busse’s research has contributed to the first evidence-based international physiotherapy clinical guidelines for Huntington’s Disease. She is also one of the lead investigators on a study that is testing a personalised self-management support programme for people living with long COVID (the LISTEN study). 

Dr Zoe Fisher, consultant clinical psychologist from Swansea Bay University Health Board and Advancing Healthcare Award winner for Outstanding Contribution to Research Delivery, leads a community neurorehabilitation service for people living with acquired brain injury. 

Dr Nina Maxwell, Principal Research Fellow and Joint Specialty Lead for Social Care at Health and Care Research Wales, is helping to protect children from criminal exploitation by developing Wales-specific resources for practitioners, parents and young people. Dr Maxwell said:

There’s a message in the media that it’s mostly one cross section of society that is being criminally exploited, but I’ve spoken to young people from all walks of life who are targeted and groomed, and parents who just never thought it would happen to their children.”