Marion Rutherford

Dr. Marion Rutherford is a Senior Research Fellow at Queen Margaret University in the Speech and Hearing Sciences Division. She co-leads the National Autism Implementation Team Research Programme and is a full member of the Clinical Audiology, Speech and Language Research Centre. With over 30 years of clinical experience, her work focuses on neurodivergent individuals in healthcare, education, and employment settings.

• BSc (Hons) in Speech and Language Therapy
• Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert)
• Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip)

Her research spans neurodevelopmental pathways, neuro-affirming practice, professional learning, and workforce development, with particular emphasis on supporting neurodivergent adults and children. Recent publications analyze waiting times for autism diagnosis, service implementation, and workplace inclusion.

As a Speech and Language Therapist, she has led projects like the Lothian children’s autism diagnostic pathway and contributed to SIGN autism guidelines. Her funded work includes Scottish Government grants for the National Autism Implementation Team (2019–2025).

• Member of Royal College of Speech & Language Therapists (MRCSLT)
• Registered with Healthcare Professions Council (HCPC)

Her research methods integrate meta-analysis, systematic reviews, and participatory approaches, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations across health, education, and medical sectors.