A Lancaster Medical School researcher is to receive one of Europe’s top honours for radiography.

Dr Lisa Ashmore has been awarded the title of European Senior Researcher by the European Federation of Radiographer Societies for her work improving the experiences of people undergoing radiotherapy for gynaecological cancers.

Dr Ashmore, who is also a trustee of Lancashire and South Cumbria based charity CancerCare, said: “I grew up in Lancaster, and it’s always been important to me that my work benefits the people and communities I care about.

“My research is about working with people providing or receiving health care and trying to make those experiences better- more accountable, more dignified, more honest, and easier to navigate. Having that recognised at a European level feels special.”

Dr Ashmore qualified as a Therapeutic Radiographer in 2000 before doing a PhD at Lancaster University in 2007, supported by the Rosemere Cancer Foundation and an ESRC Interdisciplinary Studentship.

She has worked at Lancaster University since 2011 and is now a Senior Lecturer in Social Sciences at Lancaster Medical School, where her research projects, including Gynae Narratives and the NIHR-funded GRACE project, have transformed patient support, informed national policy, and helped improve communication and decision-making in cancer care.

The Panel of Radiographer experts from across Europe said Dr Ashmore’s work, “was highly rated by all reviewers, demonstrating excellence, impact, and strong contribution to the advancement of radiography. This recognition reflects both the quality of your research and your growing leadership within the profession. We are truly delighted to acknowledge your achievement.”

The award follows an exceptional year for Dr Ashmore, who has also been named Northwest and UK Radiography Professional of the Year.