Dr Martin Robinson
The INVOLVE_FP project is led by Dr Áine Aventin and Prof Maria Lohan from Queen's University Belfast. This project involves a systematic review of the effective characteristics and components of family planning interventions involving men and boys in low- and middle-income countries. The aim is to identify what works in family planning interventions involving men and boys, and why. The project is funded by the Centre of Excellence for Development Impact and Learning with support from UK aid from the UK government.
Details of any grant/funding connected with the research
INVOLVE_FP is funded by the Centre of Excellence for Development Impact and Learning with support from UK Aid from the UK government.
What is your ideal Research outcome?
We will generate new recommendations on what works in family planning programmes with men and boys. It is hoped these will guide intervention development, evaluation, and research to drive improvements in these interventions.
Principal Investigator: Dr Áine Aventin & Professor Maria Lohan
Why did you choose your current post and why at Queen’s?
The research project and its methods interested me, and it stood to make a genuine impact in enabling men to be equal partners in family planning. I have enjoyed working at Queen’s in the School of Nursing/CESI and wanted to continue my relationship with the research going on here.
How have you been supported at Queen’s?
I gave availed of opportunities to teach in the School of Nursing, engaged with Athena SWAN, and have been supported to take control of my personal and professional development.
In what ways have you developed at Queen’s?
I have developed a range of specific research skills in quantitative and qualitive methods, as well as intervention development and systematic review. Beyond that I have developed the ability to effectively manage multiple ongoing pieces of work and to collaborate in a fruitful way with colleagues in the university and abroad. .
Can you describe the postdoctoral community in the School and at Queen’s?
The post-doc community in the School of Nursing and CESI is extremely friendly and supportive. I’ve felt very much part of a community in CESI when working there and while working from home.
Where do you hope your current post will lead?
I hope to apply the various skills and experience gains during my time as a post-doc in an application for a lectureship or individual fellowship.
Anything else you would like to add or advice to new Postdocs?
Follow your interests and keep an open mind about what posts you might apply for. Get involved with others and find out what they are researching, you never know when you might happen on something you are passionate about.