The University of Stirling is to play a crucial role in equipping healthcare professionals with the skills to create evidence-based solutions to everyday issues.

Healthcare systems all over the world face increasing pressures due to rising patient numbers, complex care demands, and a projected global workforce shortage of 10 million by 2030.

The University of Stirling will collaborate with Fulbright Specialist Marion Leary, PhD, MPH, RN, who is based at the world’s top nursing school, the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing (Penn Nursing), and NHS Forth Valley, to create an innovation ecosystem.

Dr Leary and Professor Ashley Shepherd, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences and Sport, will lead the project, which is funded by a Fulbright Association grant.

Dr Leary said: “I am delighted to be working with the University of Stirling and NHS Forth Valley on this project, which will begin in October 2025.
“Over the past seven years, the Penn Nursing has become the leading school for innovation in the United States.

“I’ll use a similar playbook to collaboratively create an innovation ecosystem at the University of Stirling which is based on all the work we are doing at Penn Nursing.”

Professor Karen Goudie, Executive Nurse Director for NHS Forth Valley, said: “We already work very closely with nursing colleagues from the University of Stirling and this new collaboration with Dr Leary and the University of Pennsylvania will help drive forward further innovative work to improve patient care, address healthcare challenges and enhance the profession of nursing.

Professor Ashley Shepherd said: “This exciting initiative will establish a triple helix partnership between academia, healthcare, and industry.

“It is hoped the project will empower nurses, faculties, and students with human-centred design methodologies to drive transformational change in nursing practice, workforce development, and healthcare education.”