BACKGROUND AND RESEARCH INTERESTS

With a background in anthropology, my research interests are in exploring links between respiratory illness and mental health, most recently (2015-2020) as a co-applicant of the inter-disciplinary Life of Breath project www.lifeofbreath.org. I am Research Lead for  the International Primary Care Respiratory Group (IPCRG).

Alongside my main research interest I have  continued collaborating on research into other chronic conditions prevalent in primary care, mainly mental health, diabetes and eczema as well as the primary care response to domestic violence and abuse (DVA), most recently, an adapted trauma informed MBCT intervention for survivors of DVA (BRC funded CoMFORT study-ongoing)

METHODOLOGICAL EXPERTISE

I have two methodological interests and areas of expertise: Qualitative Evidenece Synthesis (QES) using meta-ethnography to synthesise qualitative research findings; and the use of cognitive interviewing techniques to critique quantitative assumptions of measurement. I am interested in sensorial anthropology, exploring the process by which lived sensations become measurable symptoms.

IMPACT AND PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT

I have collaborated with arts health practitioner Elspeth Penny (2BUProductions) in a series of public engagement workshops, using therapeutic creative writing with those experiencing breathlessness. This has culminated in qualitative data being incorporated into pieces of choral composition by Toby Young, 'Under The Surface' and an art installation by Louise Jenkins called 'Suspended Breath'.

MINDFULNESS BASED COGNITIVE THERAPY (MBCT)

I am also a qualified MBCT teacher, having trained at the Centre for Mindfulness research and Practice in the psychology department at Bangor University (2009-2013). Since 2011 I have taught the 8 week course in mindfulness based cognitive therapy to university staff and undergraduate medical students-the latter are referred from student health services, the counselling service or the student advisory service.

I contribute to the field of mental health and wellbeing within the University. I am regularly approached to run workshops in mindfulness based approaches, both locally (inside the department and wider University) as well as at other institutions (e.g. Severn Deanery/ Bristol CCG). My expertise in mindfulness research is also sought from other institutions (e.g. Exeter, Oxford, Southampton) for PhD supervision and as external examiner. 

TEACHING

Alice has been co-Director with Christie Cabral on a 3 day course in Qualitative Evidence Synthesis: using Meta-ethnography.

She has run skills workshops at the European Respiratory Society Conference (ERS) in Barcelona and Milan on the use of MBCT in pulmonary rebailitation.