Background

I am a life-long learner who is passionate about exploring how individuals and professionals make decisions based on scientific evidence, past experiences, and the social milieu in which they work. Throughout my career I have worked extensively in academic, corporate and clinical environments. For the past several years, I look at decision-making broadly to consider the social environment in which people work and how identification with role or profession can shape how people use evidence and make decisions. I examine the process for making decisions and the role of regulatory and motivational factors in influencing implementation. Previously, I focused on the physical aspects of the environment through occupational biomechanics (ergonomics). The approach I use now is mostly qualitative in nature. Based on past training, I am also familiar with quantitative and mixed methods.

Over the years, my specific areas of study have included evidence-based practice, motor vehicle collision guidelines, ergonomics, women’s health, and simulation-based training and education. Through family life I am active in the community and run a small consulting practice where I support new mothers, sports teams and schools through manual therapy and physical education. This critical role in the community helps me to stay connected to the real-life challenges of individuals and groups and inspires me to undertake research that is applicable to daily life.