What is your favourite thing about your role?
Before I started my PhD with SOLVE-CHD, I worked for a long time as a clinician and I had always wanted to pursue a career in research. So, broadly speaking, my favourite part of my role is getting to do research - I love it and am very grateful to be able to do it every day.
What are you working on at the moment?
I am getting my systematic review and meta-analysis on peer support interventions for people with coronary heart disease ready for publication. I’ve also been working on a study where we are analysing data from peer support programs.
Why is this project especially interesting or important to you?
Peer support is interesting to me, as I’ve seen first-hand as a clinician how people can benefit from the experiences of others with the same condition. Patients become experts in their conditions and they can identify what is important to their recovery – I think these are essential considerations for clinicians and researchers.
What do like most about SOLVE-CHD?
The thing I enjoy the most about SOLVE-CHD is belonging to a supportive and dynamic team that draws upon our varied backgrounds and research focuses. The SOLVE-CHD retreat it always a lot of fun - a personal highlight was watching my colleague Dion rock a tinfoil saxophone for two years in a row.
What is a recent achievement you’re proud of?
I’ve gotten two abstracts accepted this year at the European Society of Cardiology 2024 Congress in London and I’ve been successful in getting travel funding to attend.
What do you like to do outside of research?
I have two beautiful kids and I love being their Dad. I’m a bit of a CrossFit fanatic and a music nerd - I enjoy restoring and playing old electronics, record players and musical instruments.
