What did you study at A-level (or equivalent) and why did you select those subjects?
Physics, chemistry, biology and history. Physics, chemistry and biology were needed for medicine and I took history as some light relief as I enjoyed history GCSE.
What degree/PhD did you study?
I did my medical degree at the University of Sheffield and my PhD at the University of Liverpool.
What inspired you to choose and study your degree subject?
I had always wanted to be a doctor, despite no medical role models and coming from a family that had never been to university. I am really not sure where the drive came from, I just always knew I wanted to be a doctor, I thought the job looked like it would have different challenges every day and it definitely lives up to that.
Whilst training as an obstetrics and gynaecology doctor I met the most amazing mentor who was a clinician scientist and I was instantly inspired. From that meeting, the encouragement I received, and the enormous sense of wanting to make a difference for patients, I knew I wanted to be a clinician scientist. The PhD was part of my development as a scientist.
What jobs have you had during your career?
I have worked in Tesco, as a health care assistant, a phlebotomist, a doctor and a clinician scientist. Each had there own challenges and I enjoyed them all!
What is your current job and what do you enjoy about it?
I am a Senior Lecturer, Subspecialist in Reproductive Medicine and Consultant Gynaecologist at the University of Liverpool and I enjoy that I can combine my love of reproductive medicine and gynaecology surgery with research and trying to improve treatment options available for those I see suffering in clinic on a daily basis.
I am also clinical lead for Obstetrics and gynaecology teaching in years 1 and 2 at the University of Liverpool medical school. This role allows me to enthuse the students regarding all things obstetrics and gynaecology and following lectures we have had multiple students join our research department in their free time to complete CV enhancing projects.
Do you have an area of expertise / research?
I focus a lot of me research in the field of reproductive medicine and recurrent implantation failure. 1 in 6 couples worldwide will experience fertility issues and although assisted reproductive technologies can help some couples, the success remains low and more research to help individuals and couples suffering, often in silence with infertility, is massively needed.
I also, along with another medic and 2 PhD students, host a podcast dedicated to all things women`s health. Knowledge is power and the misinformation that is available with regards to women`s health is ridiculous. Between2ovaries podcast (available on all podcast streaming outlets) and Instagram is central to ensuring that women and men have evidence based knowledge and are able to advocate for themselves and their loved ones to ensure they receive the best and most appropriate treatment for them.
What has been your most exciting project or career role?
I love my job as a clinician scientist and that I am in a position to excite others regarding the merits of women`s health research. My basic science work has led to a better understanding of the endometrium in numerous different ways and I remain optimistic that further research will enhance treatment options for multiple women`s health conditions.
Any advice you’d like to share?
If you are passionate about a cause shout loudly and find others who are also passionate.
Why are you passionate about your subject / career / STEM?
Women`s health research is massively under funded and deserves better. I will strive to promote and do my best to ensure best patient care through evidence based interventions.
Find out more about Nicola, and keep up to date with her work on:
Instagram: @between2ovaries
Between2Ovaries Podcast on Spotify: Listen here
Nicola Tempest
Senior Lecturer, Subspecialist in Reproductive Medicine and Consultant Gynaecologist at the University of Liverpool