James Sheppard BSc(Hons), PhD

Dr. James interest in scientific research began during his undergraduate degree where he studied the effects of hypocapnia on baroreflex sensitivity using spontaneous sequence analysis for his final year dissertation project. This led him to do a PhD in studying the effect of hypocapnia on cardiac electrical activity and heart function and its relevance to the early diagnosis of coronary artery disease. His current interest in health related research stemmed from this early work and a desire to be involved with research which makes an impact in the real world.

As part of the BBC CLAHRC optimisation of management of stroke and transient ischemic attack team, James manages the quantitative element of the study. This involves managing data collection within the different NHS trusts participating in the study and analysing this data for publication in peer reviewed journals. In addition, this study aims to initiate practice change within the NHS and evaluate the effectiveness of that change. James is responsible for using the data collected from participating sites to identify these areas that may benefit from change and provide evidence to support this.