Erin O'Kane

About Erin

Erin is a fourth-year medical student at the University of Sunderland. In Summer 2025, Erin undertook their first research project as part of a National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) summer internship at Newcastle University. Erin completed a qualitative meta-synthesis exploring medication adherence in post-stroke and transient ischaemic attack (TIA) patients, supported by the APCCU team.

The challenges of starting out in research

As it was their first research project, Erin initially found the scope of work and expectations associated with it daunting, particularly given the short timeframe for NIHR-funded student projects. The APCCU provided regular in-person and on-line drop-in sessions, which Erin found invaluable in helping them to begin to make progress with the project. As a result, they developed a better understanding of how to approach the literature review process, qualitative analysis and write-up.

'The APCCU provided an approachable environment where I felt comfortable asking questions and seeking clarification.'

Personal and professional development

Erin reports that their experience with the APCCU had a significant impact on their personal and professional development. They developed key academic skills, particularly in relation to academic writing. Erin presented at an international conference and successfully published the meta-synthesis in a peer-reviewed journal as a first author: a significant achievement at this stage of training. Erin also gained valuable insight into research as a potential career path.

'Prior to this experience, I had not seriously considered research as a feasible career option. However, this experience has led me to reconsider this, and I now intend to apply for a Specialised Foundation Programme (SFP)'

Final thoughts

As someone with limited prior research experience, Erin found the process of taking the lead on a research project initially daunting. However, they found the APCCU team to be supportive and accommodating. Erin would encourage other health professions students who may feel uncertain about research to take advantage of the opportunities and support available from the APCCU.

Last modified: Tue, 25 Aug 2026 10:49:29 BST