Polly-Anna Ashford

Polly-Anna Ashford is the Research Lead for Psychology and Mental Health at Norwich Clinical Trials Unit (Norwich CTU), part of Norwich Medical School at the University of East Anglia. She holds a MChem in Chemistry (2006–2010) and a PhD in glycopeptide antibiotic synthesis (2010–2014). Post-PhD, she worked at the Royal Society of Chemistry before joining Norwich CTU in 2017. Her research focuses on clinical trials methodology, emphasizing psychological intervention trials, recruitment impacts on trial demographics, and inclusion of under-served populations with disabilities.

• Education:
  • MChem in Chemistry with Analytical and Forensic Science (UEA, 2006–2010)
  • PhD in Chemistry (UEA, 2010–2014)

Her research interests span three core areas: optimizing clinical trial design for psychological interventions, analyzing recruitment barriers to improve trial inclusivity, and advancing accessibility for marginalized groups in healthcare research. Recent projects include promoting accessibility in trials (PRACTICALs), evaluating mental health care pathways (CMD-PE), and designing digital interventions for youth mental health (Wait Less).

Her articles focus on pragmatic trials, caregiver support (e.g., chronic pain, motor neuron disease), and qualitative studies on post-surgical recovery. Funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research, her work emphasizes methodological innovation and real-world applicability.

Grants & Projects:

• Promoting Accessibility in Clinical Trials (PRACTICALs) – 2025–2026
• Understanding Care Pathways for Common Mental Disorders (CMD-PE) – 2024–2026
• Wait Less: Online Self-Help Intervention for Youth Mental Health – 2024–2027

She collaborates with interdisciplinary teams at Norwich CTU and the Norwich Medical School, advancing equitable healthcare through rigorous trial methodologies.