Rachel Cullens

Profession:  Radiographer

Current position: Senior Lecturer

Years qualified: 19 years

What are your areas of interest in research?  Computed Tomography, Spectral Imaging, Biomechanics and Patterns of Injury, Compassionate Care, MRI.

Would you describe yourself as a ‘novice’ or ‘experienced’ researcher? Novice

Why did you decide to get involved in research? Seeking to provide an evidence base for our profession and natural progression for my career.

Who encouraged you to get involved in research and who do you go to for advice when you need it? Employer; previous post grad lecturers.

What sort of activities/studies have you been involved in? (e.g. data collection, planning, supportive care/clinical research) Small original research project with involvement from other research institutes.

What do you enjoy most about being involved in this/these research activities? The challenge of making new discoveries.

What has been your biggest challenge or barrier to being involved in research? Limit support and insufficient grounding in science/research skills.

What one piece of advice would you give other researchers who have never been involved in research before? Ask for the right assistance and don’t let the fact that you have to ask affect your confidence.

Is there any other information you wish to share with the network? Leadership in your own institutions and collaboration with Radiology Depts will hopefully lead our profession in the right direction.