Dr Sally Atkinson
Postdoctoral Research Associate
I’m a social anthropologist working in the fields of science, technology and biomedicine. My current work examines the interaction of cultural, political and economic structures in the emergence of scientific knowledge and practice.
I am currently working with Professor Susan Molyneaux-Hodgson on a study Responsible Research and Innovation in the DETOX study around synthetic biology and biomanufacturing.
My work combines ethnographic research with interviews, focus-group and document and material culture analysis.
Research group links
Research interests
My research looks at scientific knowledge across 3 levels: evolving policy, governance and regulation, on-the-ground emerging research practices, and locating these elements in socio-cultural context. To date I have explored these issues in the development of national research agendas, clinical trials, diagnostics and recruitment practices in neuroscience and neurodegenerative disease.
I combine my interest in scientific knowledge with work on the lived experiences of in aging, chronic illness, and advances in digital technologies, bioinformatics and neuro-immunology. My recent projects involve working collaboratively with UK and EU research infrastructures around innovations in bioinformatics and experimental medicine.
I am currently developing a project examining how novel digital platforms are being used to develop recruitment for clinical trials, and the impact of evolving data science approaches on engagement with and experiences of experimental and clinical medicine for dementias.
Modules taught
- ANT2004 - Into the Field
Biography
2017- 2018 Research Associate
Exeter University
PI: Professor Susan Molyneux-Hodgson
Funding Body: Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council
Summary: Lead qualitative researcher on the role of Responsible Research and Innovation in synthetic biology and bio-manufacturing
2015 – 2017 Research Associate
University of Cambridge
PI: Dr. Shirlene Badger & Professor Carol Brayne
Funding Body: Medical Research Council
Summary: Lead qualitative researcher on the ethical, legal and social implications of the development of the MRC Dementias Platform UK.
2014 Ph.D. in Medical Anthropology
Durham University
Thesis: “Piece of Mind: A study of networks, collaborations and participation in dementia research”
Funder: Economic & Social Research Council and the Post-graduate fund for women graduates
Advisors: Professor Bob Simpson & Dr. Yulia Egorova
Summary: Qualitative study on the evolution of dementia research in the UK.
Teaching: Tutor 1st year Health & Human Sciences Module, Guest Lectures: 1st Year Medical Anthropology, 2nd Year Research Methods and Practice, Resident Tutor: Undergraduate & post-graduate study skills, post-graduate funding applications.
2009-2010 Research Assistant
Durham University
Project title: Writing Across Boundaries
PI: Professor Bob Simpson & Professor Robin Humphrey
Funder: Economic & Social Research Council
Summary: Qualitative study of writing interdisciplinary research.
2009 – 2010 MA (distinction) Research Methods in Social Anthropology
Durham University
Dissertation: “Becoming ‘at home’ in research: A reflection on the development of an anthropological project”
Advisor: Prof. Bob Simpson
2007-2009 Supporting People Administrator
Praxis Care, Northern Ireland, Research Department
2006 – 2007 Research Assistant
Queen's University Belfast
Department: Social Anthropology & Ethnomusicology
Projects: Facts, Fears & Feelings
PI: Dr. Rosellen Roche
Funder: Community Relations Council
Summary: Cross community study of young people’s experiences of sectarianism and intra-community violence.
1999 – 2007 BA (Hons) 1st Social and Cultural Anthropology
Queen's University Belfast
Department: Social Anthropology & Ethnomusicology
Dissertation: “‘Babies’ and ‘Bad Girls’: An anthropological study of perception and identity management between children and adults in a West Belfast community” – Anne Maguire Prize