We are pleased to share the next edition of our SPCR Researcher Spotlight series, featuring two of our researchers, Dr Grace Turner from the University of Birmingham and Dr Jane Vennik from the University of Southampton . This series highlights the impact of continued SPCR research capacity and development funding since it's introduction in 2010.
From clinician to research leader: championing diversity in digital health and research leadership
Dr Grace Turner, Associate Professor at the University of Birmingham, has leveraged her career through SPCR funding, pivoting from clinician to research leader in digital health and patient safety. She was awarded an SPCR PhD studentship in 2012 to investigate the long‑term impacts of transient ischaemic attack (TIA) and minor stroke—work which has influenced best practice guidelines, including the Stroke Association’s TIA campaign and Canadian stroke recommendations
 |
I believe SPCR funding has been instrumental to my research career and instilled a passion for research and drive to for personal development. I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences gained from my PhD. SPCR funding allowed me to attend national and international conferences, and this enabled me to showcase my research, develop presentation skills, build my research reputation, develop I received SPCR funding when I
|
|
The funding was instrumental to my career as it was the first stepping stone in establishing myself as an independent researcher specialising in stroke research. As an academic researcher on short-term, fixed contracts, it was a hugely beneficial to have three years dedicated to my research interests and training. This positive experience inspired me to apply for a (successful) NIHR post-doctoral fellowship. Receiving prestigious NIHR funding for my PhD was also valuable for subsequent job applications.” |
|
A late academic start: SPCR funding paved the way for career expansion in health services research
Dr. Jane Vennik, a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Southampton’s Primary Care Research Centre, embarked on an academic journey later in her career, thanks to SPCR support. She completed her SPCR-funded PhD in 2018, investigating nasal balloon autoinflation for children with glue ear through a mixed-methods approach.
In September 2024, she secured an SPCR postdoctoral fellowship to develop recommendations enhancing health action plan implementation for people with learning disabilities. Dr. Vennik now applies her qualitative expertise to improve health services delivery and lead inclusive projects.
 |
The SPCR studentship funding allowed me to take forward the research from the AIRS trial, to look at barriers and enablers to wider implementation of the nasal balloon in primary care gaining extensive qualitative research experience. My PhD has also facilitated my expansion into other roles. After completing my PhD in 2016, I joined the NIHR-funded MACRO I am the academic programme manager for the NIHR-funded RECUR programme, successfully leading the project through to publication.
|
|
I have also worked with the SPCR-funded Empathica feasibility study as a mixed-methods researcher, with In 2020, I joined the NIHR Research Design Service (now RSS) as a senior research advisor, using my research experience to advise other researchers in successful grant applications. I am also the chair of the Faculty of Medicine Ethics Committee at the University of Southampton.” |
|
Latest news
Celebrating Excellence in Primary Care Research and Education: SPCR Colleagues Honoured
30 June 2025
The NIHR School for Primary Care Research (SPCR) is delighted to celebrate and congratulate several of our colleagues who have recently received awards and honours for their contributions to primary care research, education, and practice.
Three NIHR Research Schools’ Mental Health Programme Newsletter | Q2 - June 2025
26 June 2025
The Q2 Three NIHR Research Schools’ Mental Health Programme Newsletter is out now. Sign-up to our newsletters to stay updated about our latest news, publications and funding.
From Research to Action: Supporting Black Communities in Southwark
23 June 2025
Former Three Schools’ Mental Health Programme award holder Stephanie Ejegi-Memeh is continuing to make an impact through her work championing equity in black-led public health.