Ms Alison Birtles

Biography

I graduated from the University of Wales College of Medicine Dental School in 1996 with my BDS aswell as an intercalated BSc (Hons) gained from studying dental biochemistry.  Post-graduation I gained a broad experience of primary care through my employment in general dental practice, community dental services and subsequently within the local teaching hospital where I worked closely with a consultant colleague as a clinical assistant.

It was during this time that my interest in undergraduate dental education developed.  In 2006 I joined Leeds University and headed up their first, and just-opened, outreach clinic.  This is a purpose built facility designed especially for dental undergraduates to gain essential experience of treating a new patient cohort in a primary care setting which is where the vast majority of undergraduates will base their careers.  During my time at Leeds University I gained an MSc in restorative dentistry, I also got my teaching award and was granted fellowship of the Higher Education Academy.

In 2014 I took up my current role here at Aberdeen Dental School.  My primary responsibility is the administration and teaching within the Clinical Skills Laboratory.  A range of technologies are used within this simulated clinical environment to prepare the students for treating patients on the student clinics.  My current focus is research of dental education within simulated clinical environments with a view to enhancing student experience both with Aberdeen and, through publication, beyond.