Dr Gemma Taylor
A leading public health researcher whose work has helped shape national and international healthcare policy has been honoured at the inaugural University of Worcester Alumni Awards.
Dr Gemma Taylor, who studied Psychology and Biology at the University of Worcester between 2006 and 2009, was named winner of the Social Impact in Healthcare Award in recognition of her significant contributions to public health, addiction research and healthcare improvement.
Since graduating, Gemma has built an internationally recognised research career focused on public health and addiction. Her research has influenced clinical and public health guidelines around the world, including those produced by the World Health Organisation and UK Royal Colleges, and has helped drive changes in smoking cessation policy and practice.
Her achievements include being invited to present on post-pandemic public health priorities to Professor Sir Chris Whitty, Chief Medical Officer for England, securing major research fellowships, and leading nationally funded programmes aimed at improving healthcare outcomes. Her work integrating smoking cessation treatment into NHS mental health services has been particularly influential and has earned national recognition, including a British Medical Journal research award and the Society for the Study of Addiction Impact Prize.
Reflecting on receiving the award, Gemma, who works at the University of Bristol, said: “I genuinely couldn’t believe it when I found out. It was such a lovely and unexpected surprise.
“I feel incredibly proud and privileged to receive this recognition, particularly from a university that played such an important role in shaping both my career and my life. It means a great deal to know that Worcester has continued to follow and support my journey long after I graduated.”
Originally raised in Canada, Gemma moved to England at the age of 21 and chose the University of Worcester because of its reputation for teaching excellence and supportive learning environment. She credits her degree with laying the foundations for her future career in epidemiology and public health research.
“The course gave me a strong grounding in psychology, biology, research methods and statistics, and sparked the interdisciplinary approach that has stayed with me throughout my career,” she said. “Just as importantly, the supportive teaching environment gave me the confidence to continue into postgraduate study and eventually build a career in academic research.”
Alongside academic success, Gemma has many personal memories of her time in Worcester. After graduating with a first-class degree, she remained at the University to complete a Master’s degree, during which time she met her future husband.
“The University gave me not only the foundations for my career, but also friendships, memories and relationships that have shaped my life ever since,” she said.
The inaugural University of Worcester Alumni Awards were launched earlier this year to shine a spotlight on Worcester graduates who are making a difference locally, nationally and internationally across fields including healthcare, education, business, sport, sustainability and community leadership. They formed part the University’s 80th anniversary year celebrations.