Prof Ruth Strudwick - Diagnostic Radiographer

RESEARCH: RADIOGRAPHY PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE 

How did you get into research? I enjoyed my undergraduate dissertation and once I qualified as a diagnostic radiographer I was involved in audits within the department where I worked.  I undertook my MSc whilst working as a radiographer and enjoyed the research that I did then.  After working as a radiographer for eight years, I became a Practice Educator and then a Lecturer.  My line manager at the time encouraged me to do a doctorate, and then my love for qualitative research began. 

What do you enjoy about research? The research that I tend to undertake now is largely qualitative and so I love listening to people and finding out about them and their experiences.  I find that fascinating.  I also love working with others in a research team, you can learn so much from one another.  

What was the most difficult aspect of doing your PhD?  I actually did a DProf – a professional doctorate.  I found it hard to keep going at times, it was hard work and there were setbacks, but I had two amazing and encouraging supervisors who helped and supported me through.  

What difference has your research training and experience made to your career?  It has given me opportunities to be involved in projects, to speak at events and to meet some amazing people.  It has helped me to progress from lecturer to professor. 

How has research changed your clinical practice?  I work full time in higher education now, but also undertake some shifts as a bank diagnostic radiographer occasionally.  In my clinical work, I feel like I know so much more now about the bigger picture and because of my research with patients and service users, I know that I am more caring professional. 

What has made a difference to progressing your research career?  Making the most of opportunities that have come my way and not being afraid to ask or apply for something.  I have always tried to say ‘yes’ and then fit it in somewhere!

Where do you see your clinical academic career going over the next five years?  I am not really a ‘clinical academic’.  I see myself supporting and mentoring others and helping them to progress now.  I would also like to be a PI on a big funded project in the next five years.

Professor Ruth Strudwick, Professor in Diagnostic Radiography & Head of AHP, University of Suffolk, r.strudwick@uos.ac.uk