In Speech Pathology Week August 23 to 29, we talk to Dr Jane Bickford, Academic Lead for speech pathology at Flinders, researcher and certified practising speech pathologist.
What is your role at Flinders University?
I am a senior lecturer and currently the Academic Lead for speech pathology. I am also an early career researcher. I teach a range of topics including ones related to the human voice and voice disorders, and professional skills development. I have held a range of other roles including being First Year Director for the former Schools of Medicine and Health Sciences, and eLearning Theme leader for the College of Nursing and Health Sciences.
What is your current research focused on?
My research foci include critical analysis of multidisciplinary care for complex health needs, effective prevention and intervention strategies for voice and communication disorders and exploration of self-identity after head and neck cancer. I am also part of a team of researchers examining the impacts of COVID-19 restrictions on vulnerable groups. I currently supervise five honours students and I’m exploring opportunities to supervise research higher degree students.
What pathway led you to this career?
I graduated from Flinders University as a speech pathologist in 1994. I then worked clinically in several states of Australia before moving to the United Kingdom for five years. There, I managed to specialise in supporting people who had voice disorders or communication and swallowing problems after head and neck cancer.
In 2003, I returned to Adelaide and began working at Flinders Medical Centre as a senior speech pathologist and clinical educator. This role was partly funded by Flinders University and led to some other teaching opportunities.
In 2007, I was successful in obtaining a part-time Level B academic position with the Speech Pathology discipline at Flinders University. Since then I have completed my PhD and was awarded the Vice Chancellor’s Award for Doctoral Thesis Excellence.
Do you continue to practice in conjunction with your teaching and research?
I continue to support practice educators who have students, mentor speech pathologists and oversee research projects with a strong clinical focus. I collaborate regularly with my Flinders Medical Centre colleagues in speech pathology, allied health and otolaryngology and head and neck surgery.
The clinician in me is keen to return to direct clinical practice now my children are older. I am exploring my options.
Can you share a challenge and how you addressed it?
The Speech Pathology Teaching Section has experienced significant changes over the last few years. Many experienced staff have left due to retirement, promotion or secondment. We have also had to adjust to new systems and the changes brought about by the restructure.
I have had excellent mentoring from some very experienced and knowledgeable former colleagues, and I try to draw on their wisdom to guide the way I support my colleagues and the Speech Pathology team. Teamwork makes dreamwork.
Can you share one of your proudest moments?
In 2017, I was asked to carry the mace in the Graduation ceremony procession. This came just after I completed my PhD and felt like a really important moment for me in my academic role but also because I have had a long association with Flinders. My dad, Jim Bickford worked on the professional staff for the School of Biological Sciences for over 25 years. I recall visiting the Bedford Park campus often as a girl and when I was in high school I did work experience with Professor Rod Wells in his palaeontology lab. Flinders University has also been important to my family for the education it has provided. Between myself, my mum, brother and sister we have seven degrees from Flinders.
How do you spend your spare time?
Academia is really demanding but I’m lucky to live on a small property in the Adelaide Hills. It provides me with relaxation, exercise, fresh air and connection with nature.