CHARTERED SCIENTISTS

HOW I GOT HERE…

Ambassador for science

Aligning podiatry with the scientific community was a strong motivator for achieving Chartered Scientist (CSci) status, as Gafin Morgan explains in our latest instalment.

What prompted you to apply?

I had a few reasons: I wanted to align myself professionally with the Science Council to demonstrate, as a podiatrist, my ability and commitment to the scientifi c method. I also felt it was a way to recognise the work I’ve done over the years from a service-development and research perspective.

How easy or diff icult did you find it?

The application process is very clear indeed. Each step can be carried out systematically and saved to your online account as you go. Although it requires the applicant to think clearly about their supporting evidence for each section, particularly in terms of inputs and outputs,

Find out more about applying for CSci status at bit.ly/

CSci-application

Gafin’s podiatry journey

Qualified from the University of Wales in 1997. Works as an extended scope practitioner podiatrist and foot and ankle clinical lead for NHS Wales University Health Board’s clinical musculoskeletal (MSK) assessment and treatment service. Is also an MSK sonographer specialising in trauma, interventional, point-of-care diagnostics, ultrasound tissue characterisation and strain elastography. Has an active research profile. Works as a consultant podiatrist for Sport Wales, assisting in the management of elite athletes. there’s plenty of support available with this.

What does having CSci status mean to you?

It’s meant recognition of the various projects I’ve carried out as part of my role, particularly my published research on tendinopathy and stiffness. The application process was rewarding in itself, as it was an opportunity to refl ect deeply on my previous activities – research or otherwise.

Why is it important for podiatry to be seen as a scientific discipline?

This was an important consideration for my application. It demonstrates that not only are we aligned with the scientifi c community in general but we’re committed to the application of the scientifi c process outside and within our professional role.

Tell us more about that...

I’m currently working with our innovation team on the use of 3D technology – scanning, printing and virtual reality across various healthcare sectors. This is an emerging technology within healthcare – particularly the ability to visualise 3D anatomical scans in a virtual environment for surgical planning. With CSci status we can be ambassadors and apply science in all its guises that interest us.

How would you encourage fellow podiatrists to apply?

Have a look at the Science Council website and read some of the CSci profi les on there for inspiration. Download the application guidance, take a look through your portfolio and consider what you could use as supporting evidence: you’ll be surprised at how much of your experience is relevant. And don’t be afraid to ask for support from a colleague or another CSci.

Could you be next?

To become one of more than 13,000 Chartered Scientists working across all scientific and related sectors, here are the criteria you need to meet:

HCPC-registered podiatrist. Member of the College of Podiatry, holding the MCPod or a fellowship (FCPodM or FCPodS). BSc podiatry/podiatric medicine or the DPodM or BMedSci podiatry. Minimum of four years in full-time podiatryrelated employment. Master’s degree in podiatry (or a cognate discipline) or a doctoral degree, or if not the holder of a master’s degree, the candidate will select the M-level equivalence route.