In this blog post Hope Jones, Early Years Researcher, National Centre for Population Health & Wellbeing Research (NCPHWR), shares with us her inspirational journey into research.
What did you do before joining NCPHWR?
I went to Bangor University where I studied BSc (Hons) Psychology and then specialised in MSc Neuroimaging. While I was a student, I completed two summer internships at Swansea University Medical School working on the primary school network (HAPPEN) and encouraging young people to be more active (ACTIVE).
What sparked your interest in a career in research?
During my Psychology degree, each student was required to be a research participant for various studies in the department. This involved physical activity questionnaires, tests of inhibitory control, memory tasks, gamification and many more. These experiences highlighted the diversity in research opportunities and sparked passion for research.
If any, what challenges have you faced in your journey into research?
I finished my master’s degree during the summer of the COVID-19 pandemic which was a very unexpected situation to be in. Specialising in neuroimaging when MRI scans could only be conducted for medical purposes meant that there were limited opportunities for neuroimaging-specific research roles at this time. This was challenging but opened the door to other exciting opportunities in public health research which led to my involvement in research on the impact the pandemic had on families.
What type of research have you worked on?
My area of expertise is child and family health and wellbeing. I lead on the Born in Wales project which is a birth cohort study that aims to understand how family health and wellbeing affects the future for children.
What areas of research interest you? What does the future hold?
I am interested in all aspects of family health and wellbeing from pregnancy all the way to adolescence. Any research that looks at improving outcomes for children and families growing up in Wales interests me because I want to be part of making a positive change for the future generations in Wales. I am also currently working towards my PhD on child and family health and wellbeing.
What advice would you give to someone looking at a career in research?
Anyone can get into research! Everyone on our team comes from a different background so I would stress that it does not matter what your background is anyone can get into research. Also, find out what subject you really care about and go for it.
National Centre for Population Health & Well-being Research (NCPHWR) is one of the 12 Centres of Excellence based in Population Data Science at Swansea University. Find out more about their work on their website.
