Case studies : Research podiatrist: Ruth

Ruth graduated with a degree in podiatry from Glasgow Caledonian University. She went on to pursue a Postgraduate Certificate in Applied Biomechanics. She now works as a research podiatrist at a university while pursuing a PhD.

When thinking about careers, I always wanted to do a job which involved hands-on work and practical skills. I also was interested in working with people in a health care setting.

During my undergraduate degree, I developed an interest in research. I really enjoyed the final year research project and this encouraged me pursue a career in research.

Following graduation, I spent some time as a research intern, which gave me experience of large-scale, funded research studies. I was employed as a clinical tutor and then a lecturer for three years. During this time, I applied for my current post as an allied health professional training fellow funded by Arthritis Research UK. This fellowship allows me to undertake my PhD on a full-time basis.

My degree provided me with basic knowledge of the core skills required to undertake research including project management, literature reviews and data analysis. My degree also provided me with core skills in management of foot health complaints and experience of the factors affecting the patient group I am currently studying. Ultimately, my degree was hugely relevant in securing my current position; I could not have applied for my current post without an undergraduate degree in podiatry.

In my current role, I spend some of my time at clinics - either treating patients for their foot problems or recruiting patients who may be interested in participating in my study. I have spent quite a lot of time in the motion analysis laboratory learning how to use the various systems we have within the university. These include the 3D motion analysis (to track the movement of the foot and lower limb in three planes of movement) and electromyography (to study muscle function). I also spend time at my desk undertaking literature searches, writing my thesis, analysing data and doing general administration. I have spent some time presenting my work to audiences either at conferences or within the university and have had some of my work published in academic journals.

I enjoy being my own boss and working to my own deadlines. I also enjoy the contact with patients and constantly acquiring new knowledge as my PhD progresses. However, there are times when things don’t going according to plan, and it can be frustrating. There are also challenges in terms of data processing, which can be repetitive, but I wouldn’t have it any other way! In the future, I would like to continue my work in research.

If you’re interested in podiatry or podiatry research, I would encourage you to find someone in the career that you can approach and spend time with. This proved to be invaluable in my experience and opened up a number of opportunities that I didn’t even consider at the time. Motivation and dedication are also helpful in any job.