Danique

What is your role and what gives you energy in your work?

As a clinical epidemiologist-podiatrist and manager of the Science & Data Analysis department, I deal with everything to do with conducting scientific research and working with data. I get a real buzz from turning complex issues into useful insights. I love it when data isn’t just a set of figures, but actually contributes to better care and better decisions. I also find it very rewarding to bring together different disciplines and people around a shared goal.

What is your favourite quote, motto or tip to help people get through life more easily?

Not everything that matters can be counted. And not everything that can be counted matters.

Data helps us make better choices, but behind every measurement there is a person. The trick is to combine figures with people’s context, experiences and needs.

How can you tell from your work that it really suits you?

I realise that my job suits me because I am naturally curious and always want to understand exactly how things work. Every day, I wake up thinking that we can learn something from every patient to improve care for the next one. The fact that research, data and practice come together in this way gives me the opportunity to turn insights into real improvements.

What do you do outside of work that people might not expect of you?

Interestingly, I’m far less analytical in my private life than I am at work. Whilst at work I like to weigh up facts, make connections and look at issues critically, in my private life I often don’t really mind which choice is made. Going out with the dog helps me to clear my head and recharge my batteries. It’s a lovely counterbalance to the analytical work I do during the day.