Lisa Oleary

Dr. Lisa Oleary is a Lecturer at Edinburgh Napier University's School of Health and Social Care, serving as the University and School Lead for the Intellectual Disability Research Group. She holds a PhD, ILM qualifications, and PGCE, with a research focus on improving health outcomes for people with intellectual disabilities through coproduction methods and systematic reviews.

• Co-editor-in-chief, Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities (2024-present)
• Chair, IASSIDD International Health Special Interest Group (174 members)
• Principal Investigator for projects funded by Burdett Trust for Nursing (£68,270) and Bailey Thomas Foundation (£89,970)

Her research program investigates chronic condition management in intellectual disability populations, with notable work on respiratory health, swallowing difficulties, and self-management strategies. She employs innovative methods like Talking Mats communication tool and photosymbols to engage marginalized groups.

Scientific recognition includes:

• World Health Organization cited her research in Global Report on health equity for people with disabilities (2022)
• Scottish Government policy reference in Learning/Intellectual Disability and Autism Towards Transformation (2021)
• Top-cited status in Journal of Applied Research in Intellectual Disabilities

As an educator, she:

• Led modules on research methods for >200 international students
• Developed evidence-based healthcare management curriculum with NHS and business school collaborators
• Received 100% student satisfaction ratings for multiple modules