The National Institute for Health and Career Research has developed a new role, assistant director of Allied Health Professions, to support research career opportunities.
Dr Lisa Ledger has been appointed to the role and will be responsible for developing and supporting research capacity and capability development for AHPs.
Last year, the National Institute for Health and Career Research (NIHR) agreed to spend an extra £30 million per year to increase research opportunities. The funding includes helping a wide range of health and care professions across England, including AHPs.
It said: “One area of strategic focus is making academic career pathways attractive for AHPs who often lack advancement into senior research posts. The new role will act as a champion and advocate for AHP research careers.”
‘Unique and vital contribution’
She will also highlight how AHPs can make a difference to health and social care outcomes through research, and encourage more AHPs to become research active.
Dr Ledger said: “I am delighted to be given this opportunity to shape AHP research capacity and capability, creating visibility and direction at a national level. I am really passionate about the unique and vital contribution that Allied Health Professions make in the delivery of high quality, best evidenced, health and social care.”
Leadership for AHPs who lead, support or deliver NIHR research will be part of the new role, as will support for those taking part in NIHR academic research training.
The role involves working with AHP bodies, the Council for AHP Research and NHS England.
Dr Rachel Harris, head of professional practice and education at the SoR, said: “We are pleased to hear of Dr Ledger’s appointment. The role will ensure that the AHP voice is heard at NIHR and we hope to work with Lisa in ensuring that radiographers have equal opportunities in research.”
Experience with senior leadership
Dr Ledger is a qualified occupational therapist and has worked across health care settings, specialising in rehabilitation, specialist seating and posture management. Dr Ledger has an MSc in Rehabilitation Science and a PhD in Health Sciences. Her areas of research include pressure ulcer prevention and person-centred practice.
Dr Ledger’s previous experience includes senior leadership across integrated care systems and quality assurance roles including external examiner appointments. She has held leadership roles in higher education institutions and worked on behalf of professional bodies.
The NIHR currently provides various methods of help and support for AHPs, including:
- Courses and qualifications for those taking their first steps in research.
- Flexible training programmes to enable AHPs to balance a research and practice-based career.
- Support to help AHPs along their academic career path.
To find out more about the help and support offered to AHPs by the NIHR, click here.
(Image: Dr. Lisa Ledger, via the NIHR)