Epilepsy

I have an interest in the evaluation and lateralisation of cognitive function in epilepsy using functional MR neuroimaging methods, both in task-based and resting state fMRI, with particular emphasis on pre-operative evaluation for resective surgery. My doctoral thesis focussed on the comparative validity of resting-state and task-based fMRI for lateralising language function in epilepsy surgery. 

We are currenlty attempting to evaluate the efficacy of using task-based fMRI paradigms (some novel), resting-state fMRI and diffusion tensor imaging in predicting post-operative cognitive risk of resective surgery.

PKU

I am currently a Research Psychologist on a Phase 4 Open-Label, Single-Cohort Study of the Long-Term Neurocognitive Outcomes in 4 to 5 Year-Old Children With Phenylketonuria Treated With Sapropterin Dihydrochloride (Kuvan®) for 7 Years. I conduct assessments of intellectual functioning and have consulted on the monitoring of development using psychometeric methods and techniques. 

Traumatic Brain Injury

I am interested in the detetction of Post-Traumatic Amnesia (PTA) and its prognostic use in ongoing cognitive sequelae. I have been involved in developing guidance on the assessment and management of PTA in two major trauma centres and regional rehabilitation units. I have also been involved in projects developing new protocols for assessing the ongoing risk of PTA.

I am engaged with research in the behavioural assessment and detection of cognitive sequelae of traumatic brain injury. I have been involved in developing a cognitive screening tool for children and presented this as a paper at the International Neuropsychological Society Conference (2016).

I have been involved to a lesser degree in research and guidance in neurorehabilitation of traumatic brain injury, with respect to the rehabilitation of working memory (Phase II - RCT), guidelines for management challenging behaviour, assessment and mamangement of prolonged disorders of consciousness (NCHC NHS Trust) and most recently (2017) advice in promoting exerercise following TBI to improve recovery.

Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC)

I am a clinical researcher and trial co-ordinator for an NIHR randomised control trial of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) for TSC. The study aims to assess the feasibility and acceptability of the DNA-V model of ACT as a psychological treatment to improve quality of life among adolescents and young adults with TSC. The intervention is delivered remotely via secure video-conferencing software and will therefore also assess the feasibility and acceptability of remote delivery of ACT. As a secondary aim, the study will also assess initial clinical and cost effectiveness of ACT as a means of improving quality of life among adolescent and young with TSC.