I am a passionate educator with a strong commitment to supporting learners across postgraduate and doctoral levels. My teaching practice is grounded in creating engaging, inclusive, and intellectually rigorous environments that enable students to thrive both academically and personally. 

I am a Senior Fellow of Advance HE, a SEDA recognised supervisor, a PhD internal and external examiner and Deputy Course Director of BCU’s PG Cert in Research Practice programme. I am also an external examiner at Staffordshire University and contribute to modules at other institutions, including the Institute of Advanced Teaching and Learning at the University of Warwick. I am also committed to ethical governance and best practice and sit on the BCU HELS Ethics Committee. 

Postgraduate & Doctorate Education

I specialise in postgraduate research methods education and doctoral-level teaching, with a particular focus on supporting students throughout the full doctoral journey. This includes:

• Developing advanced academic writing skills at Level 8

• Supporting students in publishing their research

• Guiding learners through the complexities of research design and methodology

• Addressing the emotional dimensions of undertaking a doctorate

I have a strong interest in the lived experience of doctoral candidates, particularly those who are working professionals balancing study alongside demanding careers. My approach recognises that success at this level requires not only academic capability, but also resilience, confidence, and a sense of belonging within the academic community.

Transforming Research Methods Teaching

I have led the transformation of Level 7 research methods teaching through the implementation of a flipped learning approach. This redesign has:

• Enhanced student engagement and participation

• Improved accessibility of complex research concepts

• Enabled more meaningful in-class application and discussion

Alongside this, I have undertaken curriculum and assessment redesign to strengthen alignment with learning outcomes and professional expectations. These changes have contributed to measurable improvements in student performance and benchmarking outcomes.

Teaching Philosophy

My teaching is underpinned by a student-centred philosophy that values critical thinking, reflective practice, and real-world application. I aim to empower learners to become confident researchers, capable of contributing meaningful knowledge within their fields.

Teaching Testimonials

“I have had a Level 7 research module done in another university and I would say; this one is very detailed and structured.”

“I have really enjoyed this module and feel it has prepared me to teach and learn research methods.”

“The lecturers are so knowledgeable and use teaching and learning methods that really engage the class. I have really enjoyed when we have learned a research method and have applied this to a research journal.”

“Emma and x are brilliant lecturers and a big strength for the module. They make research fun and interesting.”

Awards and Nominations

• Nominated for Research Supervisor of the Year, Inspirational Teacher of the Year, and Personal Tutor of the Year, I am BCU Awards (2025)
• Nominated for Research Supervisor of the Year, I am BCU Awards (2024)
• Best Postgraduate Publication Prize, University of Nottingham (2016)
• Teaching Commendation, University of Nottingham (2017)
• Lord Dearing Award Nominee for Excellence in Teaching, University of Nottingham (2017)