Dashboard – Cancer Zone

About Me:

I live and work in Edinburgh. I have 4 children. I am currently working as a clinical research fellow and doing a PhD. I love cold water swimming, running and eating out.
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I have worked as a dietitian in the NHS covering a range of specialties. For the last 18 years I worked in the community setting. I really enjoyed seeing patients in their own environment and how improving their nutrition helped them manage their illness or helped them recover from being unwell.

Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my family and friends being involved in active pursuits such as paddle-boarding.
My pronouns are:

she/her
My Work:

I am a clinical research fellow and PhD student
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I have recently started my post and am working on a trial looking at the effects of rehabilitation in those with incurable cancer. I will also be doing a sub study from the trial for my PhD which will look at the role of nutrition.
My Typical Day:

I wake up have breakfast, walk to work and start working about 8.30 am and finish about 4 pm. The thing I love about research is everyday is different.
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In my role I am really lucky to be working with people all over Europe for the trial I am involved with. I enjoy meeting new people and learning about how their healthcare system works and the challenges they face.

Education:

Attended North Berwick High School

Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen
Qualifications:

I gained 8 standard grades and 5 Highers

Honours degree in Nutrition and Dietetics
Work History:

I worked in the local golf club in North Berwick for 5 years when I was at school to save up money to go to University. As I was quite shy this really helped me gain confidence in speaking with people and understand the value of money. Gaining confidence and being able to communicate with people was an invaluable skill for working with patients and their families in the NHS.

I also worked in a fish and chip shop when I was at University to help to support myself.

I initially worked in Glasgow once I graduated from University. I then worked as a Locum Dietitian across the UK. This allowed me to gain experience working in different Trusts and in different clinical specialties. It also meant I had the freedom to go travelling all over the world and come back to employment. Once I had been travelling I then worked in NHS for 18 years as a Band 7 Dietitian. A large part of my job involved working with cancer patients and their families. I recently left this post to follow my ambition of pursuing a career in research.
Employer:

I am currently employed by the University of Edinburgh

Amy McLuskie