Julie Cook is a Lecturer and Senior Leader Apprenticeship Academic Advisor at the Oxford Brookes Business School, part of Oxford Brookes University. She combines practical management expertise with academic roles, holding senior leadership experience in both government and private sectors. Her education includes an MEd (Adult) and BEd (HRD). She teaches on the Oxford Brookes MBA and BA (Hons) in Business, Enterprise and Entrepreneurship, covering modules like 'Contemporary Issues in International HRM' and 'HRM In Context.' She also advises Senior Leader Apprenticeship programs and oversees MSc student consultancy projects. Her research focuses on adult workplace learning and development, aiming to enhance organizational and individual outcomes. Professionally, she is a CIPD member and provides consultancy in people management, change, and business transformation. She serves as a company director for a small business.
Santiago Caicedo is an Associate Professor of Economics and Finance at Northeastern University, affiliated with the College of Social Sciences and Humanities and the D'Amore-McKim School of Business. He holds a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Chicago, along with an MA and BA in Economics and Mathematics from Universidad de los Andes, Colombia. His research bridges microdata and economic theory to examine social interactions, human capital formation, economic growth, innovation, and organizational economics. Key interests include wage distribution dynamics, labor market regulations (e.g., apprenticeship programs in Colombia), and the spatial convergence of wage distributions across U.S. cities. He explores how collaborative networks and inventor allocation influence innovation speed and quality, with recent work analyzing demographic shifts and their impact on firm productivity and economic growth. Caicedo’s publications appear in top journals like Econometrica and American Economic Journal: Macroeconomics , addressing topics ranging from firm responses to labor policies to theoretical models of idea diffusion. His current research agenda emphasizes the interplay between labor market structures, innovation ecosystems, and long-term economic development. Notably, his work on Colombia’s apprenticeship regulation (published in Econometrica ) quantified firms’ cost-benefit trade-offs in training programs, while his analysis of Southern U.S. cities’ wage convergence highlights spatial economic realignment driven by education and industrial changes.
Professor Goudarz Poursharif is a Chartered Engineer and National Teaching Fellow at Aston University. He currently serves as the Founding Dean of Aston Professional Education and holds a Professorship in Education for Sustainable Development (ESD). His roles include leadership in academic quality assurance, curriculum transformation aligned with Aston 2030 strategy, and spearheading engineering apprenticeship programs with major UK companies like BMW and Pfizer. Poursharif previously led the BEng Professional Engineering programs and co-designed the MSc in Sustainable Engineering. His work emphasizes embedding ESD into engineering curricula and fostering industry collaboration. Education: PhD in Renewable Energy Futures, University of Sheffield (2017) MSc in Water and Environmental Engineering, University of Surrey (2008) MSc in Corporate Environmental Management, University of Surrey (2006) BSc in Natural Resources Engineering, Azad University of Tehran (2005) Research Interests: Higher Education Pedagogy Education for Sustainable Development Curriculum Design and Industry-Academia Collaboration Smart Grid Technologies and Energy Systems His work focuses on interdisciplinary design challenges, experiential learning in STEM, and global competency development through projects like the Engineering for People Design Challenge. Awards: 2024 Aston Academic Award for Outstanding Commitment to Sustainability 2023 Aston Achievement Award for Leadership 2024 National Teaching Fellowship Advising & Grants: Secured £60k+ in grants for collaborative projects (e.g., QAA, RAEng Enterprise Hub) Mentored over 2000 engineering students and colleagues in curriculum innovation External roles include Trustee, Academic Accreditor, and External Examiner at Glasgow Caledonian University Labs & Teams: Leads Aston Professional Education, a hub for industry-linked programs Founder of the Engineering for People Design Challenge (EWB-UK collaboration)
Alina Patelli is a Senior Lecturer in Applied AI & Robotics at Aston University's School of Computer Science and Digital Technologies. Her research focuses on computational intelligence approaches for urban transportation systems, particularly evolutionary computation and transfer learning applications in traffic modeling and prediction. Key research areas include genetic programming for traffic pattern recognition, symbolic regression for transport decision-making, and deep learning integration with evolutionary algorithms. She also investigates educational methodologies for digital apprenticeships and work-based learning in technology fields. Patelli's recent publications demonstrate strong engagement with industry stakeholders including Birmingham City Council and the Department for Transport. Her projects aim to optimize urban infrastructure through predictive algorithms that address traffic congestion, pollution, and sustainable mobility solutions.
Dr Jude Preston is a Lecturer (Teaching Focused) in the Work and Organisation Department at Aston University’s Aston Business School. With over 15 years of cross-industry HR and business management experience prior to academia, her research focuses on diversity in the workplace, particularly challenges faced by older workers and non-typical learners. She leads the Aston Global Advantage professional development program and runs a consultancy specializing in rail engineering education. Education: PhD (Jan 2020): Aston University, supervised by Dr J. Crawshaw and Prof Pawan Budhwar MSc Human Resource Management and Business (Distinction) MEd in Professional Practice in Higher Education (Distinction) Ba (Hons) Business Management (2.1) PGDip Professional Practice in Higher Education (Distinction) Research interests include older workers’ learning dynamics, HRM system impacts on well-being, pedagogical strategies for diverse student groups (apprentices, neurodivergent learners), and simulation-based learning. Her work bridges practical HR challenges with academic insights, emphasizing psychological and organizational adaptations for aging employees. Teaching roles include leading modules on team leadership, talent development, and professional context analysis for apprentices. She manages a team of 10 tutors and collaborates extensively with businesses globally through outreach initiatives. Awards include the prestigious CIPD ‘New Thinking’ Prize (2011) for her master’s work on age-stress-learning relationships during organizational change. Professional memberships span the Higher Education Academy (Senior Fellow), British Academy of Management, and Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development.
Dr. Douglas Browning is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Biosciences at Aston University, affiliated with the College of Health and Life Sciences. His research focuses on bacterial gene regulation, outer membrane protein assembly in Gram-negative bacteria, and synthetic biology for recombinant protein systems. He holds a Ph.D. in Microbiology from the University of Warwick and a BSc (Hons) in Biological Sciences (Genetics) from the University of Birmingham. He is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (Advance HE) and a member of the Microbiology Society since 2002. Research Interests: Regulation of bacterial virulence in pathogens like Escherichia coli , Klebsiella pneumoniae , and Salmonella . Assembly and disruption of Gram-negative bacterial outer membranes via the BAM complex. Engineering bacterial systems for high-yield recombinant protein production. Funding and Awards: Current grants include £1.7M from BBSRC for membrane protein research and £130K for industrial collaboration on outer membrane proteins. Past awards include BBSRC grants totaling over £2M and industrial contracts with companies like Syngenta. Teaching and Leadership: He leads the MRes Research Scientist (L7 Degree Apprenticeship) program and teaches modules on molecular biology, microbiology, and biotechnology. He has held roles such as Midlands Regional Representative for the UK Research Staff Association (2020–2022). Laboratory Team: Current lab members include postdoctoral researchers (e.g., Dr. Alexandra Trigg) and students like Emily Baker and Gemma Allcott. Ongoing projects involve bacterial outer membrane engineering and recombinant protein optimization.
Dr. Muhammad Azeem Abbas is a Lecturer in Information Systems & ICT at Aston University's Aston Business School (College of Business and Social Sciences). He specializes in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Semantic Web technologies with applications in education, construction, and agriculture. His teaching spans Information Systems, Machine Learning, and Web Development. He has held roles at multiple institutions including the University of Wales Trinity Saint David and Leeds Beckett University. Abbas holds a PhD in Information Technology from Universiti Teknologi Petronas and an MSc in Computer Science from Mohammad Ali Jinnah University. His research focuses on AI-driven solutions for educational systems (e.g., intelligent tutoring, EAL writing support), construction automation (BIM execution plans), and healthcare (CVD prediction). He has co-authored over 30 peer-reviewed articles and serves on the editorial board of Computers and Education: Artificial Intelligence . His work emphasizes bridging technological gaps in education and urban infrastructure through innovative systems like the Adapt-ABLE smart housing adaptation framework. Abbas actively supervises graduate students and oversees the MSc Digital & Technology Solutions Specialist Apprenticeship program. His professional service includes roles on academic misconduct committees and global software development research. His recent publications (2020–2023) reflect interdisciplinary themes in AI applications, smart city frameworks, and mobile learning innovations.
Karen Caine serves as a Senior Teaching Fellow in the Department of Leadership and Management within Aston University's College of Business and Social Sciences. She directs a suite of Online, Part-Time Business and Management MSc programs including MSc Business & Management, MSc Management & Finance, MSc Global Business Management, MSc Management in a Digital Economy, MSc Management and Analytics, and MSc Digital Marketing and Analytics. Her extensive 20+ year industry background at Capgemini as Senior Manager informs her practical teaching approach across multiple modules. Her educational qualifications include: PG Dip in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education (Distinction, Aston University, 2018) PG Cert in Professional Practice in Higher Education (Distinction, Aston University, 2013) MBA from Aston Business School (2008) Dr. Caine's research centers on innovative pedagogical approaches for diverse student populations. She specializes in online and part-time education models, foundation year programs for broadening participation, and supporting neurodiverse learners. Her work bridges academic theory with real-world business applications through leadership development, change management, and decision-making frameworks. She actively contributes to apprenticeship program design and educational accessibility initiatives. Her scholarly output includes a significant 2011 book chapter on decision-making within organisational behaviour contexts. This research intersects business management, leadership studies, and cognitive processes, with specific contributions to strategic decision frameworks, motivational dynamics in teams, and creativity applications in complex organizational environments. Key recognitions include: Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (awarded November 2014) Dr. Caine actively mentors through the RITE programme for HEA Fellowships and serves on the College of Business and Social Sciences Learning and Teaching Committee. Her external impact includes examination roles for Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeships at University of Hertfordshire (2019-2022) and IT Management Apprenticeships at University of Dundee (2018-2022). She integrates industry experience from Capgemini roles including project management, service delivery, and international knowledge management into her educational leadership.
Dr. Ingrid Hunt serves as Associate Professor at the University of Limerick's School of Engineering with over 20 years of expertise in supply chain management, eBusiness, and industry-focused educational design. She maintains active collaborations with global industry leaders including Intel, Dell, and Infineon, and her nationally recognized supply chain apprenticeship programs have established her as a thought leader in talent pipeline development. Education PhD, College of Engineering & Informatics, University of Galway (2003) Masters, Manufacturing Management, University of Ulster (1995) Bachelor, Quality Assurance, Atlantic Technological University Sligo (1994) Higher Diploma, Electronics, Atlantic Technological University (1992) Certificate, Electronics, Atlantic Technological University Sligo (1990) Her research centers on Supply Chain Management , eBusiness innovation , and educational program development for SMEs and industry professionals. She specializes in curriculum design that bridges academic theory with real-world applications, particularly through her work on national supply chain apprenticeships and flexible learning frameworks. Her contributions align with UN Sustainable Development Goals in education and industry innovation, emphasizing practical outcomes for career advancement and organizational growth. Publication trends reveal consistent focus on supply chain optimization since 2001, with recent work (2022-2025) concentrating on post-pandemic online learning experiences, human factors in industrial maintenance, and next-generation apprenticeship models. Earlier research (2004-2013) established foundational work in SME development, virtual enterprises, and agri-food supply chains, demonstrating her evolving expertise from technical implementation to strategic educational frameworks. Dr. Hunt currently accepts PhD students and has secured Irish and EU funding for multiple projects, including national supply chain management apprenticeship programs. Her industry partnerships with major technology firms drive curriculum development that directly addresses workforce needs, creating tangible career pathways for graduates. As External Examiner for Technological University of the Shannon, she extends her influence across Ireland's higher education landscape while maintaining active research through 2025 publications.
Alison Salmon is a Midwifery Lecturer at the School of Health and Social Care, part of Sheffield Hallam University's College of Health, Wellbeing and Life Sciences. Her work focuses on midwifery practice, advocating for birthing individuals-centered care, and exploring the psychological and physical well-being impacts of birth experiences. She teaches across BSc Midwifery and MSc pre-registration programs, emphasizing leadership, professional development, and complex clinical practice. Dr. Salmon's career includes community and hospital midwifery roles, leadership in innovative home birth teams (including unique settings like yurts), and practice education coordinating apprenticeships for maternity support workers. She values the transformative power of birth on families and the importance of midwifery's unique skillset. Her educational background includes a BSc Honours Midwifery and MA Advanced Practice from Bournemouth University, alongside a PGCE from Huddersfield University. She joined Sheffield Hallam University in 2022, bringing clinical and educational expertise to midwifery training programs.
Catherine Smith is a Lecturer in Construction Project Management at the School of Engineering and Built Environment. With over 5 years of teaching experience in higher education, she bridges academic theory with practical industry insights gained from her roles as Project Manager and Project Engineer at a multinational construction firm. Her expertise includes managing infrastructure projects for clients like National Grid, Northern Powergrid, SSE, and local authorities. She serves as Course Leader for Barratt Developments and teaches across Undergraduate, Apprenticeship, and Master's programs. Her research focuses on construction project delivery and practical applications of engineering theory , emphasizing real-world problem-solving in infrastructure development.
Abigail White is a Senior Lecturer at Sheffield Hallam University, serving as Course Leader for the BSc and PGDip Specialist Practice District Nursing programs. She leads modules including 'Advancing District Nursing Practice' and teaches on the BSc Adult Nursing programme. Previously, she worked as a District Nurse Team Leader in Sheffield for twelve years, managing complex patient care in home and community settings. Her professional interests include leadership, resilience, end-of-life care, and safeguarding vulnerable adults. She supports District Nursing students across multiple regions (Sheffield, Lincolnshire, Mid Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire, Rotherham, Barnsley, Doncaster) as a link lecturer. Abigail is a Queens Nurse and active in organizations like the Association of District Nurse Educators and the Northern Educators Collaborative, contributing to the development of the District Nursing Higher Degree Apprenticeship. Her career includes international nursing experience in India and Australia, focusing on resource-limited environments and not-for-profit healthcare structures.
Kirsten Whitehead is an Associate Lecturer specializing in dietetics and healthcare communication. She is affiliated with Sheffield Hallam University's College of Health, Wellbeing and Life Sciences, supporting the MSc Dietetics (Pre-reg) and Degree Apprenticeship (DA) Dietetics programs. Previously, she held roles at the University of Nottingham from 2002 to 2019, focusing on nutrition and dietetics education. She earned a PhD in communication skills for behavior change in dietetics and holds a Master of Public Health (2000) and BSc. A registered dietitian with over 20 years of clinical experience in NHS settings, her research centers on improving practitioner-patient communication through tools like the DIET-COMMS assessment and training package, widely used in UK and Australian universities. Her professional accolades include Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. She teaches modules such as 'Professional Practice' and 'Leadership in Public Health Nutrition,' emphasizing evidence-based practice and complex dietetic challenges. Kirsten's work bridges clinical practice and education, with a focus on communication as a cornerstone of effective dietary behavior change. Education: PhD in Dietetics (Communication Skills for Behavior Change) MSc Public Health (2000) BSc (Dietetics) Research Interests: Development of communication frameworks in dietetic consultations, behavior change strategies, and the application of validated tools like DIET-COMMS to enhance clinical practice. Her work also explores barriers to healthy eating in public sector workplaces and healthcare professionals' understanding of probiotics. Grants & Advising: No specific grants mentioned, but her freelance role involves curriculum development and training initiatives. She advises on dietetic communication practices through her research and teaching roles. Labs/Teams: Collaborates with the DIET-COMMS development team at the University of Nottingham, maintaining ties to academic institutions using her training package.
Adnan Khan is a Senior Lecturer at the Business School of Buckinghamshire New University. He specializes in project management, operations management, entrepreneurship, and leadership, teaching at apprenticeship levels 5 and 7, MBA, and BSc Business courses. He has served as an MBA course leader, developing accredited programs with the Chartered Management Institute. His research contributions expand his academic impact, alongside elite speaking engagements at corporate events. Education: Master’s degree from Buckinghamshire New University. Research Interests: Focuses on practical applications of business management theories, leadership development, and curriculum innovation in higher education. His entrepreneurial background enriches his academic approach, emphasizing real-world business challenges. Awards: Vice Chancellor’s Award for Most Inspirational Tutor Advising & Grants: Experience in course leadership and accreditation processes. No specific grants listed. Mentors through teaching and community coaching roles. Labs/Teams: Not explicitly mentioned in text; likely involved in university-based teaching teams.
Jacqueline Rawlinson is a Senior Lecturer at the Buckinghamshire University Business School, Buckinghamshire New University. She transitioned from a marketing and digital design background into education, specializing in Learning Management Systems, Digital Learning, and apprenticeship programs. Her roles include Course Leader for the Chartered Management Degree Apprenticeship and Senior Leader Apprenticeship. Education highlights include a PGCE (2001), D32/D33 Assessor qualifications (2000), D34 Internal Verifier Award (2002), Level 7 Digital Marketing Diploma (2017), MSC in Marketing, and Level 7 qualifications in Learning & Development. She also holds a Professional Diploma in Digital Learning Design (Glasgow Caledonian University) and is pursuing a PhD. Her research interests focus on integrating work-based learning, collaboration, and digital tools in management education. She teaches across Business Management and MBA programs, emphasizing practical, industry-relevant approaches. Awards include CIM Fellowship, MCIPD status, and certifications in Neuro-Linguistic Programming and Mental Health First Aid. She prioritizes continuous professional development (CPD) and leads initiatives in apprenticeship standards and higher education innovation.
