For Students
The Joint Student Committee brings together current SCIP students, prospective applicants, and alumni to build a supportive, connected community around the programme.
The committee works closely with the SCIP team to help shape the student experience, create opportunities for peer support, and strengthen the sense of belonging across cohorts. Through initiatives like a buddy system, shared events, and collaborative feedback, the committee ensures that every student feels welcomed, heard, and supported as they navigate their research journey.
Meet the 2025/26 Joint Student Commitee
Full Name: Achsah James
Role: CHAIR
Achsah is doing her mres at the University of Southampton. She is also a podiatrist. Her research area is around genomics education for allied health professionals. As chair, she is excited to work alongside the wider committee to create a welcoming environment and see the joint student committee vision come to life.
Full Name: Florence Smith/Hartop
Role: VICE-CHAIR
Florence is a social worker, practice educator, independent trainer, writer, and Master’s research student at Southampton Solent University. Her research and practice centre on supporting neurodivergent student and qualified social workers, with particular emphasis on understanding the role of professional supervision in establishing support needs. Beyond her professional and academic commitments, Florence enjoys spending time in the gym, exploring hiking trails, baking, and relaxing with her two cats.
As Vice-Chair of the South Central Insight Programme Joint Student Committee, she works closely with the Chair to promote effective, inclusive, and collaborative committee leadership.
Full Name: Becky Nisbet
Role: Education & Opportunities Officer
I’m Becky. I am an adult-field Registered Nurse, working in a hyper-acute stroke unit. I qualified September 2025 from the University of York and went straight into clinical practice and SCIP. I am on the MRes Clinical and Health Research at the University of Southampton, part-time across two years. My research area of interest is around the care of outlier patients and generally around areas of patient safety and outcomes.
Outside of work, I am a keen runner and occasional climber.
Full Name: Adneen
Role: Education and Opportunities Officer
Hey, I’m Adneen. I’m a newly-qualified Occupational Therapist working in Acute Mental Health. I transitioned straight from my Undergrad to MRes Clinical Health Research at Southampton University. Through research, I’m passionate about exploring the use of community-directed care to improve health outcomes. Primarily through educating key members of minority communities, as an intermediate measure. The role of education and access to it, is integral for the achievement of equity and progress. I hope to use skills and knowledge acquired from both research and clinical practice, to enhance all of our educational experiences, alongside Becky!
Outside of my clinical and academic work, I’m known to be an avid napper and explorer of all hobbies - haven’t found a favourite yet, but punch needling is up next!
Full Name: Goda Zerlauskaite
Role: Communications and Alumni Officer
Hi, I’m Goda. I’m a Clinical/Freelance Dietitian and a Master's Research Student in Health Science at the University of Winchester, with a focus on the health outcomes of women beyond a breast cancer diagnosis. In addition to my clinical and academic work, I am a CrossFit Coach and Athlete. As a Communications and Alumni Officer of the South Central Insight Programme Joint Student Committee, I’m committed to fostering collaboration across the programme through various communications channels.
Full Name: Areeha Nasar
Role: Diversity & Well-being
Hi, I'm Areeha and I am a proficient Diagnostic Radiographer. Right now, I am doing a Master of Research Science and Health from the University of Portsmouth. My prime focus is to explore the role of AI applications for enhancing diagnostic accuracy and workflow efficiency. As a Diversity and Well-being officer, I, alongside Mariana, look forward to helping students. Our mission is centered on cultivating a supportive and enriching atmosphere where every member of our student body can thrive. I believe profoundly in creating an environment where all students feel seen, heard, and valued—an environment that actively encourages open dialogue and mutual respect.
Full Name: Mariana
Role: Diversity & Well-being
Hello, I’m Mariana! I graduated in Portugal and moved to England in 2018 with the aim of pursuing a more complete and interesting nursing career in terms of education and research. I am currently a Deputy Sister at the Neuro ICU at John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford, and I am undertaking an MSc in Applied Health Research at Oxford Brookes University. After witnessing a predominant medicine hierarchy at the hospitals, my research will be looking at the ward rounds in intensive care particularly, the professional relationship and communication established between nurses and doctors. Above all, I would like to understand how we can make this crucial part of our shifts more effective for everyone and improve patients' safety.
In my spare time, I enjoy running, going for walks/hikes... anything that involves being outdoors. Also, I really like to visit new gardens and flowers/plants in general.
Along with Areeha, we will be undertaking the role of Diversity and Well-being. I am passionate about creating a welcoming, inclusive, and respectful atmosphere for all students, regardless of their circumstance or background. I hope this initiative can positively impact students' academic experience and they can feel supported and appreciated!
Full Name: Louisa Bradshaw
Role: Events Officer
Louisa is a Registered Nurse with several years of clinical experience in CAMHS and is currently pursuing her MRes degree at the University of Southampton. She qualified as an RN in 2021. Louisa’s research will focus on the time to diagnosis of endometriosis in autistic people; she is passionate about neurodiversity-affirming healthcare, research, and women’s health. Her role as Events Officer involves organising events for the SCIP cohorts to support our professional development as researchers. Louisa also has a keen interest in flow arts and the many benefits that circus skills and flow can bring!
The Buddy System
Starting a new course can feel like a lot, so our Buddy System is here to help.
New students can sign up to be matched with a buddy who is already on the course – someone who’s been through it and can answer questions, share tips, and offer friendly support. If you’re already on the programme, you can also sign up to be a buddy and help welcome new students as they get started.
Being part of the Buddy System is completely optional and easy to sign up to. It’s a great way to connect with others, feel more confident, and be part of a supportive student community.
"The SCIP Programme at the University of Southampton has been a defining part of my academic and professional journey this year. The opportunities provided have enhanced my confidence, mentorship and platform to grow as both a researcher and advocate."
Catherine Lodwick
Documents & Resources
We provide a range of supporting materials for students and participants, including newsletters, guidance documents, and key programme information. These resources are designed to support learning, research development, and engagement with the wider community.
Pre-recorded webinars and training Sessions
We offer lunchtime 'masterclass' sessions for our SCIP students, designed to support students in developing their research knowledge and skills. These sessions cover a range of topics relevant to nursing, midwifery, and health research, and are delivered throughout the programme.
• Next Steps for Students Exploring PhD Pathways – View word document
How to apply to SCIP
Ready to apply? Here you can view an example of a previous application form, to help guide you through the process. Please note, you must apply to both SCIP for funding and your chosen university by the advertised SCIP deadline.
We strongly encourage you to contact both programme leads and SCIP early to help shape a strong application that aligns with both requirements. You don’t need to choose a local or employer-linked university, so take time to find the partner course that best fits your goals, work, and life. Please do note that full-time study alongside full-time work is not permitted.
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