Gemma Burke

Gemma Burke is the Associate Head of School for Health and Social Care at Sheffield Hallam University, holding dual roles as Professional Lead for Radiotherapy & Oncology and Diagnostic Imaging. She combines 9 years of NHS clinical experience as a Therapeutic Radiographer with 15 years of academic leadership in higher education. Her strategic responsibilities include overseeing educational programs, research initiatives, and staff/student wellbeing across the School.

Education: BSc (Hons) Radiotherapy and Oncology (2000), MSc Radiotherapy and Oncology (2010), PgCert Learning and Teaching in Higher Education (2010).

Research Interests:

• Brachytherapy techniques in gynaecological cancers
• Management of radiotherapy-induced skin reactions
• Barriers to cervical cancer screening
• Development of healthcare apprenticeships standards

Her work emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration through roles like Chair of the Heads of Radiography Education National Group and Co-Chair of the National Brachytherapy Radiographers Special Interest Group.

Publications Trends: Recent work focuses on clinical education reforms (e.g., pre-admission work experience models) and patient-centered care improvements in radiotherapy practices.

Awards: Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA).

Leadership Roles:

• Former Course Leader for PgD/MSc Radiotherapy and Oncology programs
• 8-year tenure as Assessment Lead for Radiotherapy and Oncology
• External Examiner registered with Society and College of Radiographers (SCoR)

Active in national initiatives including the Therapeutic Radiographer Apprenticeship Trailblazer group and faculty apprenticeship task forces.

Research affiliations include the Health Research Institute at Sheffield Hallam University.