Testimonial – Emma Kampouraki

Emma Kampouraki - Research Programme Manager and Pharmacist

What I Gained as a Researcher by Supporting Others

My journey into research support began unexpectedly, triggered by a temporary funding gap in my clinical research role. What started as a pragmatic search for extra hours turned into an opportunity that reshaped how I see myself as a researcher. Applying for a Research Programme Manager post felt bold, but it paid off—within weeks I was stepping into a new organisation whose values instantly felt like home.

Very quickly, I found myself thriving. I chaired meetings, navigated unfamiliar policies, built a student programme, reviewed ethics applications, supported PPI work, and guided colleagues through research challenges they’d struggled to tackle alone. Skills I didn’t realise I’d been storing quietly surfaced. Supporting others helped me understand the pressures and limitations behind the scenes of research infrastructure, and it sharpened my empathy for colleagues juggling clinical and research duties.

Most importantly, I discovered the power of inspiring people—helping them articulate aspirations, persevere through obstacles and see themselves as researchers. In doing so, I strengthened my own resilience and clarity about what I want next.

This role broadened my horizons, expanded my network, and re‑energised my own research ambitions—especially in mental health, a field that now feels full of possibility. It all began with a simple “why not?”