In this finale episode of Humans of Clinical Academia,Judith Johnson is joined by co-host Steve Rogers to reflect on the fascinating interviews from Season 1. Drawing from the candid conversations Judith has had with leading clinical academics throughout the season, they unpack sevensecrets that underpin successful clinical academic careers—from embracing fear to building meaningful teams. Join them as they explore how these principles can help anyone balancing the demands of healthcare practice with researchambitions.
This episode features Professor Dame Nicky Cullum, whose ground-breaking research has revolutionized wound care. With over 260 published papers, Nicky investigates which treatments truly work, from maggot therapy to advanceddressings—identifying options that are effective, patient-friendly, and cost-efficient. Her unique perspective combines nursing practice with academic training in pharmacology, bringing scientific rigor to a field where biology,medicine, and technology intersect. Join us as we trace Nicky's path from 1960s Leeds to receiving her Damehood, exploring her early transition to research, her influential Cochrane work, and her belief that "crushing disappointments can lead to the best opportunities." We'll also uncover her writing process, offering valuable insights for aspiring clinical academics who find this aspect of research particularly daunting.
This episode features Professor Rachel Elliott, who bridges pharmacy and economics to transform healthcare spending. Is the £1.2 trillion global pharmaceutical budget being used wisely? As one of the UK's first pharmacists trained in health economics, Rachel evaluates whether expensive treatments and technologies truly deliver value. With over 150 published papers and £58 million in research funding, she ensures healthcare financial decisions are evidence-based rather than assumption-driven. Join us to explore Rachel'sjourney from ICU pharmacy specialist to pioneering health economist, how she faced criticism that she "no longer cared for patients," her guidance for clinicians entering research, and her insights from chairing NIHR fellowship awards while navigating both clinical and academic worlds.
This episode features Professor Karina Lovell, whose ground-breaking research has challenged fundamental assumptions about psychological therapy. Moving beyond the traditional model of weekly face-to-face sessions, Karina has proven that effective therapy can be delivered through phone calls, online platforms, and even without therapists—sometimes focusing instead on physical activity or building social connections. With over 270 published papers, her influential work has transformed mental health treatment globally. Join us as we explore Karina's journey from mental health nurse to pioneering researcher, discussing her experiences working internationally in Kenya and Pakistan and her remarkable success in securing research funding.
This episode features Professor Katherine Berry, whose research bridges a key debate in mental health: are psychological conditions biological or social in origin? Katherine’s breakthrough research shows that our early relationships with caregivers—our "attachment"—plays a role in schizophrenia symptoms later in life. With over 200 published papers, she's helped change how we understand mental health by showing the importance of childhood bonds alongside biological factors. Join us to explore Katherine’s research, how she got into academia, and how she has overcome the challenges she’s faced along the way.
Professor Frank Bowling has dedicated his life to providing healthcare across poverty-stricken and war-torn regions worldwide. In this episode, Frank shares his remarkable journey from beginning as a podiatrist to becoming aspecialized podiatric surgeon with four doctorate degrees. He also offers personal insights into his early life and experiences with neurodivergence.
Professor Tony Redmond, an emergency physician, has delivered humanitarian care in crisis zones includingthe Bosnian war, the Haitian earthquake, and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. In this podcast, Tony reflects on how his childhood shaped his humanitarian path, the crucial role research has played throughout his clinical academic career,and his enduring preference for instant coffee over fresh-pressed varieties.
Prof Redmond founded and is now an ambassador for www.uk-med.org. You can support his international humanitarian work by supporting UK-med.
Prof Dawn Dowding is an academic nurse and leading expert in clinical decision making and digital health. Dawn has drawn on her training in nursing and psychology to develop cutting-edge research at the forefront of technology. Dawn has worked in the UK and the US, including both California and New York. Here she talks about her experiences stateside, makes recommendations for engaging policy makers and gives tips on overcoming writer’s block.
Prof John Baker is a mental health nurse who has spent his career working to improve inpatient mental health wards. He is passionate about his work and has delivered over £8m of funded research. In this episode, we explore John's reasons for getting into mental health nursing, how he manages work-life balance and his strategies for beating imposter syndrome.