Speakers

I conduct and facilitate research that supports translating advances in genomic and other technologies into improved human health.  
 
Throughout my career I have focused on harnessing genomics and other 'omics for earlier detection and intervention to diagnose, treat and prevent diseases and conditions that impact physical and mental health.  
 
I am a chartered psychologist and behavioural scientist, and during my academic research career I have held positions in universities and hospitals in the UK and US.  
 
I work in a highly collaborative manner to deliver research that sheds light on whether and how new genomic technologies and other innovations can be implemented in health care systems in ways that are effective and responsible.  
 
I have expertise in qualitative and quantitative research methodologies, as well as human behavioural theory.  
 
My research has included assessing patient-reported psychological and behavioural outcomes of genomic testing and sequencing, and providing policy-relevant evidence regarding how to deliver, communicate and measure the outcomes of providing people with personal polygenic scores for conditions such as cardiovascular disease.  
 
I have an interest in communication and supporting informed choice, and have also worked with colleagues to develop patient- and public-facing information to make genomics more accessible, e.g. our 10-minute animation "Whole Genome Sequencing And You", and two short "My Genome Sequence" videos (all available on YouTube).  
 
I believe in the importance of public engagement in scientific research. To this end, I have given a TEDx talk ("Would you have your genome sequenced?") and written an article in The Guardian on early diagnosis