Dr Becca Wilson, Research Fellow in the Institute of Population Health Sciences, has been named as one of 100 most influential disabled people in the UK.
The Shaw Trust Power 100 list is published annually and Becca was one of only four people in the science category.
Becca is currently developing software to support the secure access to health data and the creation of immersive data visualisations. She is also a project specialist in the NIHR ARC North West Coast developing novel data processes that are fundamental to health inequalities research.
Becca said: “I unsuccessfully searched for a disabled academic that could mentor me through the challenges of having a research career myself. So as a disabled researcher, I make myself visible – to show that with the right support it is possible to thrive in an academic career.”
Within her domain Becca has been working to normalise – and make visible – experts with disability through her participation on advisory boards, delivery of keynote talks and media engagement. She challenges disability inequality in the academic sector through her efforts as a founding member, chair and active participant in disabled staff networks at universities – providing peer support in addition to campaigning for, and developing, disability inclusive policies.
In recent years, Becca has been engaging with research funders and organisations that advocate public understanding of science to develop strategies for inclusive practices and events. Becca holds a strong commitment to diversifying the public perception of scientists and has participated in a number of public campaigns to smash science stereotypes.
Becca can now count herself alongside previous ‘Powerlisters’ such as Alex Brooker of The Last Leg fame and Baroness Jane Campbell.