Isabel Windeatt-Harrison

Dr. Isabel Windeatt-Harrison is a Researcher in the Department of Human Communication Sciences at the University of Sheffield's School of Allied Health Professions, Nursing and Midwifery. She holds an honorary position at the University of Nottingham and leads the international Dementia and Conversation Analysis Network (DemCAN), fostering collaboration among conversation analysts studying dementia.

• PhD in Human Communication Sciences (University of Sheffield, 2021)
• MA in Applied Linguistics: Forensic Linguistics (Aston University, 2013)
• BA (Hons) English (University of Nottingham, 2012)

Her research focuses on applying Conversation Analysis (CA) to atypical communication scenarios, particularly interactions involving people with dementia and aphasia. Key themes include:

• Episodes of distress in acute dementia care
• Triadic decision-making dynamics (patients, carers, professionals)
• Non-verbal communication patterns in neurodegenerative disorders
• Medical discourse in geriatric contexts
• Applied linguistics in healthcare settings

Her publications reflect these interests, with a strong emphasis on CA methodology in healthcare environments. Awards include Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA), recognizing her contributions to academic practice.

Teaching experience spans modules on:

• Information skills for healthcare sciences
• Practical linguistics
• Phonetics (Sounds of English)
• Academic skills development

She maintains an active research role, currently working on a NIHR HS&DR-funded project examining decision-making processes involving people with dementia.