I am interested in autoethnographic, life story, narrative and creative approaches to research and how these powerfully connect the personal to the cultural.  My research explores kinship affinities between relations in adoptive/birth families, as well as those between humans and more-than-human animals, since these are likely to influence identity formation and relate to issues of equality and social justice.  I am a member of the Center for Human Animal Studies (CHAS) at Edge Hill University and a co-ordinator of the Narrative Research Network, an interdisciplinary group of researchers based in the Faculty of Education, providing encouragement and support for colleagues involved in narrative research. 

• Postgraduate Research Recruitment and Induction Co-ordinator, Edge Hill University (April 2022 to date)
• Programme Leader MA Education, Edge Hill University (2017 to date)
• Senior Lecturer, Postgraduate Professional Learning, Edge Hill University (2013 to date)
• Course Leader Teaching Learning Mentoring Practice BA (Hons), Edge Hill University (2011 – 2013)
• Student Associate Scheme Programme Leader, Edge Hill University (2008 – 2011)
• Teacher of History at a NW Secondary School – 2008
• Senior Schools Liaison Tutor, HE (2006 – 2007)
• Assistant Training School Manager and Professional Mentor in a NW Secondary school (2003 – 2006)
• Assistant Head of Year in a NW Secondary School (2002 –2003)
• History, Government & Politics, RE, Geography & PSHE teacher in a NW Secondary School  (1999 – 2006)