Leanne Shearsmith

Profile

I am an NIHR Doctoral Fellow working in behavioural science and applied health research at the University of Leeds.

My work focuses on developing person-centred approaches to health behaviour change, particularly within gynaecological cancer survivorship and physical activity research. I have a background in psychology, qualitative research, with experience across behaviour change science, psycho-oncology, digital health, and patient and public involvement and engagement (PPIE).

My current fellowship research, the WILDCAT study, uses qualitative methods and co-design approaches to develop a behaviour change intervention for people living with and beyond endometrial cancer. This work places particular emphasis on inclusivity and engagement with underserved communities to ensure research is relevant, collaborative, and responsive to patient needs.

I am also interested in how creativity, design thinking, and visual communication can be used within academia to make research more engaging, accessible, and impactful for both public and professional audiences.

Research interests

My research interests focus on behaviour change science and the development of inclusive health interventions that are meaningful, accessible, and grounded in lived experience.

Current areas of interest include:

• Behaviour change interventions
• Physical activity promotion
• Cancer survivorship
• Quality of life
• Qualitative research methods
• Co-design and co-production
• Community engagement
• Patient and public involvement and engagement (PPIE)
• Inclusive research practice
• Digital health interventions
• Creative and visual approaches to science communication

Qualifications

• BSc Psychology (Industrial)

Research groups and institutes

• Leeds Institute of Medical Research
• Patient Centred Outcomes
• Leeds Institute of Health Sciences