My Research Experience and Coaching Approach

I am a professor at a UK university with a background that bridges the Humanities and Sciences. I have been an academic researcher since 2003 progressing through the ranks from Lecturer to Senior Lecturer, Reader, and Professor, and experiencing the various pressures and rewards that can come with working in Higher Education.

I have coached and mentored researchers in the UK and internationally for over 10 years. As a coach I draw on my experience in research leadership, grant capture, project management, publishing, and research impact to support people at all career stages. Because the REF 2029 submission deadline is approaching, I currently specialise in coaching around the Research Excellence Framework (REF) in the UK, drawing on my extensive experience as a REF lead in my institution and as a submitting researcher including as an Impact Case Study author. Through coaching I provide a structured space for individuals to reflect on their careers including thinking through their concerns and aspirations and setting and achieving goals with someone who has lived experience of academia.

I bring a non-judgemental and compassionate approach to coaching, offering a space for people to think openly and honestly and set goals that feel right for them. Colleagues and clients describe me as friendly, warm, hopeful, and inclusive and I aim to bring these qualities into coaching conversations.

I am accredited by the European Mentoring and Coaching Council (EMCC) and hold a Practitioner level qualification in Professional Coaching and Mentoring from The OCM.