My research looks at a relatively new form of technology used to examine the development of babies’ brains both in the uterus and after birth.
What is your area of research?
My research looks at a relatively new form of technology used to examine the development of babies’ brains both in the uterus and after birth. Called Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), it is a safe technique as it does not use radiation. It can tell us a great deal through images about where problems can occur during and after pregnancy and what this means for the child’s future development. This technique is not currently available in many hospitals and those that do have an MRI scanner may not have experience in interpreting the images. We are pioneering further research that uses computer technology to interpret the MR images. This means there is less room for subjectivity and human error. This is essential for research studies but also allows easier interpretation of clinical images for less experienced radiologists. If we can detect problems in the baby’s brain development early on, we are more likely to identify the cause and there is more we can do to intervene and help modify any later developmental problems.
What opportunities has the fellowship created for you?
Thanks to the prestigious nature of the scheme, I have been able to further establish myself as a clinical academic and have gained increasing recognition for my research work. The knock-on effect is that my unit has been able to make progress in establishing itself as a centre of excellence for this type of clinical research. I have been able to build up my department and draft in additional fellows. We have also been able to attract further funding and grants for related research such as investigating the link between fatty acid intake and babies’ development.
In addition, I am invited to speak at national and international conferences about my work. My book on MR imaging of the neonatal brain won prizes from the British Medical Association and The Royal Society of Medicine. Since being awarded the fellowship, I have been promoted to Professor at Imperial College London.
What challenges have you faced?
The fellowship has meant juggling my research work with bringing up four lively children. Thankfully I’ve been able to set up flexible working arrangements so I can dedicate time to my family as well as to my work.
What does the fellowship mean to you?
The Clinician Scientist scheme has removed a huge amount of pressure to apply for research funds to support my salary and research costs. Without the fellowship, I probably would have returned to a full-time NHS position. It’s allowed me to dedicate myself to a line of research I’ve been increasingly involved in for 15 years. As a result, the unit is making huge steps in pioneering new techniques that will be of benefit to the quality of care that both babies and their families receive. Personally, it’s given me flexibility to balance my work with my home life, both of which are hugely enjoyable.
What do you hope to achieve ultimately?
My vision is that we make these imaging techniques available to all babies throughout the country. Whilst this may not be achievable in terms of having facilities in every hospital, we could ultimately help to make this technique available to units across the UK through a central analysing and reporting service. I also plan to increase awareness about our work through my teaching and supervision of both under and postgraduate students so that others can build on this and help translate the research into clinical practice on a wider scale.
12 August 2005