Research at Pathfinders takes a collaborative approach. By embracing co-production, we ensure every voice is valued and that our findings make a real difference.
In 2021, Pathfinders established a group of researchers committed to researching issues that affect people with muscle weakening conditions. The team is led by Dr Suzanne Glover, who has Spinal Muscular Atrophy (Type II). Our diverse team of researchers includes university academics, students, and individuals both with and without a lived experience of disability who have an interest in muscle weakening conditions.
What is research and Co-Production?
Co-production is an approach to decision-making and service design rather than a specific method. It stems from the recognition that if organisations are to deliver successful services, they must understand the needs of their users and engage them closely in the design and delivery of those services. External resource about co-production.
PEER RESEARCH STEERING GROUP
Pathfinders operates a Peer Research Steering Group, working alongside our Research Officer to guide the directions for our academic work. As part of the Peer Research Steering Group you will develop research projects and write academic articles.
Additionally, no academic experience is required to join our Peer Research Steering Group, but we also welcome people with an academic background. To apply, tell us about yourself and why you’re interested in research.
Research Summaries
Each month, we break down the latest research in neuromuscular conditions into clear, accessible summaries. Our aim is to keep you up to date with new findings, treatments, and innovations — without the jargon. Whether you’re living with a neuromuscular condition, supporting someone who is, or working in the field, these summaries provide a straightforward way to stay informed about the research that matters most.
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Research Unravelled – Chronic Pain in Neuromuscular Disease
People with neuromuscular conditions are no strangers to pain. Chronic pain is pain that lasts for more than three months in any part of the body, and is tied to…
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Research Unravelled: The Psychological Burden of Neuromuscular Diseases
Having a neuromuscular condition presents a lot of challenges: that goes without saying. But for all of the interventions, treatments and clinical concerns, one of the difficulties which often goes…
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Research Unravelled: Chronic pain in spinal muscular atrophy (SMA)
Would you believe that chronic pain in neuromuscular disorders is rarely talked about? This seems counterintuitive for a set of conditions which all feature pain as a symptom. However, Steiner…
Meet the Team
Dr Suzanne Glover – Research Officer, Pathfinders Neuromuscular Alliance
Suzanne completed her PhD in 2021 at Ulster University, Northern Ireland. During her PhD, she focused on resilience in family carers of those with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. She has subsequently supported many projects concerning the neuromuscular community and is a strong advocate for peer-led research opportunities.
Quinn Clark – Research Assistant
Quinn Clark is the Research Assistant at Pathfinders. They are an award-winning author, poet and researcher from Newcastle upon Tyne, whose work often intertwines themes of trauma, mental health and disability with humour and wordplay.