Q and A

Research for Impact is one of the core strategic themes in SU`s Vision 2020. How does your research relate to that?

I conduct, support and enable evidence synthesis to inform healthcare decision making. Evidence synthesis, such as systematic reviews, provide a comprehensive summary of all the available research evidence on a specific research question. It plays a key role in evidence-informed decision making. I'm also involved in a number of research projects evaluating strategies to improve the rigor and uptake of research evidence in healthcare decision making.

Please give us your impression of the role that research and innovation can play in the betterment of society?

In healthcare, we are grappling with a huge burden of disease, health system challenges and limited resources. Research can play many roles – from understanding the problem to finding solutions for it. Research and innovation can pay a key role in informing which prevention, treatment or public health interventions to offer, and it can inform how we implement these interventions to maximize impact.

What would you regard as the most important aspects to consider to effectively support researchers?

We need relevant robust research which informs decision making. To achieve this we need an enabling environment for research, competent researchers, critical thinkers and equitable partnerships.

What do you enjoy most about your job and what are the aspects that you find challenging?

What I enjoy most is paying it forward through investment in the next generation. This is always close to my heart – to build their capacity do research well. What I find challenging is inequity in partnerships.

What is the biggest piece of advice that you would give early-career researchers?

Difficult to give one piece of advice – a few:

- Conducting research is a collaborative effort. Build equitable partnerships – working together is to go further.

- Be critical thinkers and lifelong learners

- Always aim to do relevant, well conducted research.

- Report your research well and communicate your research findings beyond publications.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had an impact on the way we work. What, from your point of view, is the most pertinent change and how will this affect your work in the future?

There is no off button. Achieving work-life balance needs to be a conscious decision.

What do you do for fun (apart from research!)?

Spending time-out with the team (missing these due to COVID restrictions) and family time.