Kathleen Galvin

Professor Kathleen Galvin is a Professor of Nursing Practice at the University of Brighton, affiliated with the School of Education, Sport and Health and the Centre for Arts and Wellbeing. Her research focuses on phenomenology, philosophy, qualitative methodologies, and the integration of arts and humanities in healthcare. Key themes include well-being, dignity, lifeworld-led care, and humanization of healthcare practices. She holds a BSc in Nursing Studies from the University of Ulster and a PhD in Nursing Studies from the University of Manchester (1997). Prior roles include Professor of Nursing Practice and Associate Dean at the University of Hull, Deputy Dean at Bournemouth University, and Head of Research at the Institute of Health and Community Studies. Her work emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, particularly in aging populations, digital health, and ethical care frameworks.

Education:

• BSc Nursing Studies, University of Ulster
• PhD in Nursing Studies, University of Manchester (1997)

Research Interests: Kathleen explores existential foundations of care, qualitative research methodologies (e.g., phenomenology, poetic inquiry), and the application of arts-based approaches to enhance healthcare. Her work addresses vulnerabilities in health and social care, including frailty, digital engagement of older adults, and dignity in practice.

Projects: Recent initiatives include the EMPOWERCARE project (EU-funded, 2020–2022) to empower older adults and the SEAKARP initiative (2019–2023) developing occupational therapy tools for individuals with intellectual disabilities. She also co-leads the Guild Care KTP (2024–2026), analyzing social impacts of adult social care interventions.

Labs/Teams: Active in the Centre for Arts and Wellbeing, she collaborates on interdisciplinary projects linking healthcare, humanities, and technology. Her work often involves public engagement through science events and ethical care initiatives.