We are delighted to welcome three new interns to our group from the University of Bremen, Germany - Fazila Jafari, Chanel Liedtke and Lina vom Wege.
Fazila is a research student with a passion for bridging cultural perspectives, who will be focusing on chronic pain research, including work on musculoskeletal pain interventions and pain prevalence. Chanel is a public health student who will be supporting research on the PANDOS study, examining pain and opioid use after surgery, while Lina will be working on health inequalities research, exploring how social factors influence musculoskeletal disease outcomes and investigating urban-rural healthcare disparities in Scotland.
Tell us a bit about yourself and your research interests
Fazila
As an Afghan-German woman, born in Afghanistan and raised in Germany, I have had the opportunity to experience and understand two very different ways of life. I have always been interested about helping people and making meaningful, positive changes in their lives. My interest lies in researching the ways of life of others, understanding their needs and exploring how to support them effectively. I am particularly motivated by the idea of bridging cultural perspectives and using this understanding to contribute to the well-being of individuals and communities. Helping others is not only fulfils a personal purpose for me but also drives my curiosity to learn more about human experiences, social challenges and practical solutions to improve quality of my life.
Chanel
I have been studying Public Health at the University of Bremen in Germany since 2023. I am particularly interested in topics related to epidemiology, disease prevention and health promotion. During my studies, I have developed a strong interest in how data and research can be used to improve population health and guide evidence-based policy decisions. I really enjoy learning about different health systems and how social and environmental factors influence health outcomes.
Lina
I am also currently studying Public Health at the University of Bremen in Germany. I have had a strong interest in medicine and the healthcare system since school, where I was already introduced to topics such as epidemiology. I am particularly fascinated by the intersection between medicine and public health, especially how social and environmental factors can influence physical and mental health. My research interests include health inequalities and how different life circumstances and diseases affect health outcomes. I enjoy working on research projects, exploring data, and seeing how findings can contribute to improving population health.
What will you be working on while you are with the group?
Fazila
While I am with the group, I will be working on two main research projects. The first is "Effectiveness of musculoskeletal pain interventions that improve work: an umbrella review of high quality systematic reviews", under the supervising of Professor Gareth T Jones and Stuart Anderson. This project focuses on evaluating evidence-based interventions aimed at improving work outcomes among individuals with musculoskeletal pain. In addition, I am also working with Professor Gary J Macfarlane and David Watkin on the project "How common is chronic pain?". Through these projects, I hope to strengthen my research skills, deepen my understanding of epidemiological methods and contribute to improving quality of life for people living with chronic pain.
Chanel
During my internship with the Epidemiology Group, I will be working on research related to routinely collected health data. My work involves developing approaches to access and analyse these datasets and exploring the facilitators and challenges related to the implementation of ICD-11. In addition, I will assist with ongoing research projects like the Pain and Opioids After Surgery (PANDOS) study through literature reviews and data management. I am really looking forward to gaining deeper understanding of how heath data can be used to improve research quality and support evidence based public health.
Lina
I will be working on a scoping review for the Health Inequalities Study, which examines how the PROGRESS factors influence for the outcomes of various musculoskeletal diseases. Additionally, I will work on the research for the Building Rural-Urban healthCare Equity for Scotland (BRUCES) study, which investigates why health and care inequalities exist between urban and rural areas in Scotland, focusing on conditions such as cancer, musculoskeletal disorders, and frailty, with the goal of developing evidence-based recommendations to improve rural healthcare.
Why did you choose to come to Aberdeen?
Fazila
I think if you want to learn a language there is no better way than to live in the country itself for a while. At first I really wanted to improve my English, but also as a budding researcher who wants to work in the area in the future, working with the Epidemiology group and gaining experience here is something that every student wants. I don't think we need to talk about the nice people and wonderful nature!
Chanel
I chose to come to Aberdeen because of the University's strong reputation in health sciences end epidemiology. The Epidemiology Group's interdisciplinary work really matches my academic background and interests. I was also eager to experience studying and working in an English-speaking environment to improve my communication skills and gain international research experience. Scotland's culture and nature also appealed to me.
Lina
As part of my study program, I am required to complete an internship, which I wanted to undertake abroad. With my strong interest in epidemiology, I was particularly drawn to the renowned Epidemiology Group at the University of Aberdeen. The group has a strong reputation for high-quality, impactful research in public health and epidemiology, and I saw it as a valuable opportunity to learn from experienced researchers. I believe this environment will help me grow both academically and personally. Additionally, I have always been fascinated by Scotland's beautiful nature and culture, making Aberdeen an inspiring and welcoming place to live and work.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
Fazila
While I'm not working, I love to explore the city, find new places to visit, explore the beautiful landscape and try new food. My plan is also to visit other Scottish cities to experience more about Scottish culture and the land itself.
Chanel
I enjoy spending time outdoors, exploring new places and meet friends. I also like reading, cooking and going for walks. That's why I walk to the office. During my time in Aberdeen, I hope to explore a bit of Scotland and experience some of its beautiful landscapes.
Lina
I enjoy spending time with my friends, taking long walks, and being out in nature. I like discovering new places, visiting different cities, and trying out new activities. I also enjoy reading books and traveling to various countries.