Dr Gemma Stevenson

Project Lead

Gemma is a registered nurse, lecturer and researcher with extensive experience supporting older people across acute care and national research projects. Her work has focused on improving hospital‑to‑community transitions, and has completed a PhD focused on person‑centred discharge practices.

Vicki Waqa

Lecturer

Vicki is a nurse with over 30 years’ experience across acute care, primary care, and education. She previously led national General Practice Nurse education for NHS Education for Scotland. Vicki’s work focuses on preventative health, bone‑health awareness, and reducing inequalities in access to osteoporosis support.

Isabel Reilly

Research Assistant

Izzi is an early‑career researcher and NHS Lothian staff nurse with a First‑Class Honours degree and a master’s by Research. Her work centres on person‑centred care, nursing leadership, and ensuring the voices of under‑represented groups shape future clinical practice.

Lyndsey Ackerman

PhD Candidate

Lyndsey is a musculoskeletal physiotherapist with more than 20 years’ experience across the NHS and private sector. She holds an MSc in Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation and has advanced training in injection and hand
therapy. Her PhD investigates how healthcare professionals approach the prevention, early identification, and management of osteoporosis

Becca Freeden

PhD Candidate

Becca is a physiotherapist specialising in pelvic health and rehabilitation. She is committed to helping people build long‑term exercise habits. Her PhD explores bone‑health in perimenopause and how group support and
multidisciplinary input can empower positive lifestyle changes during this stage of life.

Laura Fregonese

Lecturer

Laura is an adult nurse with clinical experience spanning Italy and Scotland, including A&E, acute medical care, and emergency theatres. She combines her academic role with ongoing clinical practice in trauma theatres at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh. Laura contributes expertise in moving and handling practices and raising awareness of osteoporosis among healthcare staff. She is also completing a PhD focused on strengthening evidence‑based nursing practice.