This prestigious national award supports exceptional researchers who are on track to become future leaders in health and social care research. It offers not only vital research funding but also tailored support for professional and personal development.
Catriona’s fellowship will tackle one of healthcare’s most profound challenges: understanding and improving the quality of care for people in the final days of life, particularly those dying in their own homes or in care homes. Her research will also explore how to better involve people from ethnically diverse and socioeconomically disadvantaged communities, groups too often underrepresented in (palliative care) research.
“It’s a real honour to be awarded such a significant fellowship,” said Catriona. “This recognition highlights the growing importance of palliative care and the need for research that includes all voices, especially those so often unheard.”
Each year, around half a million people die in England. The quality of end of life care has a lasting impact, not just on patients, but on families and friends. Poor care can lead to suffering, complicated grief, and unnecessary hospital admissions. As national conversations around assisted dying continue, Catriona’s work arrives at a critical time.
Through this fellowship, she aims to generate the evidence needed to improve care for those at the end of life, highlight best practices, and develop more inclusive and compassionate research methods.
“I haven’t followed a traditional clinical academic path,” she shared. “I’ve had to be agile, resilient and flexible, balancing clinical work with family life and personal responsibilities. Being awarded this fellowship means so much, and I hope it encourages others, especially in underrepresented areas like palliative medicine, to pursue clinical academic careers.”
Preparations for the research are already underway. Catriona is currently writing a detailed study protocol, preparing for ethical approval, and assembling a multidisciplinary team to help deliver the project.
Alongside her research, Catriona is committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion in academic medicine. With fewer women represented at senior levels of research, particularly in palliative care, she hopes to be a visible role model for others progressing through similar paths.
A huge congratulations to Catriona on this outstanding achievement. We’re excited to see how her work shapes the future of end of life care.