Sian Taylor Philips – professor of population health
Asked to define a job full of joy, not many of us would opt for one that revolves around fine-tuning government health policy. But not many of us are Sian Taylor-Philips.
The Warwick University professor is a leading light in health screening, synthesising the latest research so that policy makers can make evidence-based decisions. And if that sounds about as exciting as watching paint dry, think again. Because this is about changing – and even saving – lives, she explains. It gives health bosses the information they need to “invest in the things that do work – and say no to the things that don’t.” Which has a direct impact on patients’ life chances.
But ‘joyful’? “Oh yes! I get up in the morning and I really want to go to work because it’s exciting: I get to use the latest methods, get to learn from some of the best scientists, some of the best doctors in the world. I actually get to use science to improve the NHS. That’s joyful because it gives me a real sense of purpose.”
