Dr Spence's research interests are in simulation-based education, particularly with an interprofessional education focus, but also accepting of uniprofessional framed studies. An interest also in Near-Peer Learning and research into the experiences of students and staff using this modality as an approach to education, using both qualitative and quantitative methodologies.

As a consultant gastroenterologist, he also has a clinical background, performing research into gastrointestinal cancer epidemiology such as oesophageal and neuroendocrine malignancies, using quantitative methodologies.