Spotlight on the Nominees: Megan Creasey (Rising Star)

As the Wellcome Centre for Human Neuroimaging’s 2021 Public Engagement Awards draw closer, we shine a spotlight on each of the nominees to celebrate their contribution to another year of outstanding public engagement at the Centre.

Through her role as Head of Imaging Support, Rising Star nominee Megan Creasey has acquired an impressive knowledge of the types of questions and concerns that arise when participants enter an MRI scanner. This insight proved extremely valuable for this year’s Understanding MRI project, which aimed to alleviate fears and improve understanding of MRI physics for study participants.

Through working on Understanding MRI, Megan was able to improve her skills running focus groups and develop an understanding of the specific needs of people with particular neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease and stroke.

Megan combined her detailed knowledge of MRI physics and extensive experience of scanning with an enthusiasm to learn more about public engagement. In particular, her insight into the vocabulary and speed required for the video helped the team find practical solutions for presenting complex scientific content.

In an already challenging year, Megan went above and beyond her existing responsibilities and experience. Now, she can take her in depth scientific expertise and enthusiastic energy into the future, and continue to contribute the Centre’s outstanding public engagement programme.