Background

I have worked at Newcastle University for over 20 years. In January 2018, I was appointed as the Head - Newcastle Joint Reseaerch Office (NJRO) and Deputy Director of Research Strategy and Development (RSD).

Prior to this appointment, I was the Faculty Accountant for the Faculty of Medical Sciences. In this role, I gained extensive knowledge and experience of systems working - predominantly between Academia and the NHS.

As Head - NJRO, I lead a team of Newcastle University (University) and The Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (Trust) professional colleagues who work with researchers to develop, deliver and implement world class health and care research into practice. I am responsible for sound research governance and regulatory oversight being in place, for both the University and Trust, to ensure compliance with relevant standards and regulations underpinning clinical research.

Proficient in Quality Improvement methodologies and learning from best practice, I regularly review systems, services and processes which undeprin health and care research across the University and the Trust to make the research experience as streamlined as possible.

Adopting a systems leadership approach and compassionate leadership, I strive to ensure that the principles of inclusivity, team research, empowerment, freedom to succeed, collaboration and impact are embedded within the team's culture and ethos.

At a regional level, I work closely with the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) infrastructures including the Clinical Research Network, Clinical Research Facility, Biomedical Research Centre, Patient Recruitment Centre and Applied Research Collaboration. 

At a national level, I am Chair of the NHS R&D Forum Executive and a member of UKRD.

Being a fellow of the Newcastle University Policy Academy, I have received support to develop my influencing skills on local and national policy in the areas which have an impact on health and care research.

I am a coach and mentor in the University and the Trust as well as within the Voluntary Sector, an ambassador for Health and Wellbeing, a Just Ask Volunteer and a Mental Health First Aider.

In September 2023, I submitted my MSc in Coaching and Mentoring, where the research focus was on the experience on emotional wellbeing of women in paid caring roles of Solution Focused Coaching in the Outdoors.

I am a listening volunteer at Tyneside Samaritans and part of the Outreach Team.

To unwind, I partake in a number of indoor and outdoor activities including spinning, boxing, hiking, cycling and running, and also enjoy reading and lifelong learning.

@AngelaTopping74