My primary research interests are the consultation, in particular the use of computers in the consultation, and the application of Communications and Information Technology (C&IT) to patient care. I also have an interest in Medical Education Research and again specifically with regard to the application of Information and Communication Teachnologies. Clinically my main interests are in Diabetes, Minor Surgery and the use of IT in general practice. 

My main teaching activities include: Course organiser for the Family Attachment Scheme for first and second year students; course organiser for the clinical communication skills course for first and second year students and I also contribute to teaching and assessment in a number of areas of the undergraduate curriculum including the 4th year General Practice course.  I am currently developing a Student Selected Component in eLearning. 

I have held a number of leadership roles in medical education:  Deputy director of the Centre for Medical Education (2009 - 2012); deputy director of the Institute of Medical Education (2004-2009) and was responsible for the co-ordination of a significant expansion of student numbers at this time. I also introduced a systematic approach to eLearning in the school.  I am currently the Lead for eLearning and also the Lead for Professionalism within the undergraduate curriculum. 

For a number of years I have played a major role in the introduction of IT and eLearning into the medical curriculum and into the University.  I have been instrumental in QUB becoming a partner in the International Virtual Medical School (IVIMEDS) consortium which I currently chair.