RCN Cymru and Cardiff University appoint Professor of Nursing Research

Cardiff University and the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) Cymru are pleased to announce the appointment of Nikki Cotterill as Professor of Nursing at Cardiff University and Royal College of Nursing Wales Chair for Nursing Research.

Nikki will take up the joint appointment on 4 January 2027, bringing together the expertise and influence of both organisations to strengthen nursing research and academia in Wales and beyond.

The role will provide strategic direction for nursing research, championing its development, visibility and impact across Cardiff University’s School, RCN Cymru and the wider nursing profession.

A key focus will be on growing nursing research capacity, supporting research leadership and developing a world-class programme of research into nursing-related topics. This work will aim to generate high-quality publications and meaningful research outcomes that can inform policy, influence practice and ultimately improve health and care.

The appointment also recognises the important contribution nurses make to research and the value of ensuring their knowledge, experience and perspectives help shape the evidence that informs the future of healthcare.

Nikki Cotterill said:

“I am honoured to be appointed as Cardiff University Professor of Nursing and Royal College of Nursing Wales Chair for Nursing Research. My vision is to champion nursing research as a powerful force for improving health and care, ensuring the perspectives of nurses influence the evidence, policy and practice of the future.

"I want to raise the visibility and influence of nursing research, grow research capacity and leadership, and ensure nurses have a strong voice in shaping the questions that research seeks to answer, recognising that every nurse can contribute to a research-active profession where evidence is driven by the realities of care and what matters most to patients and communities.”