Emma is a qualified optometrist who currently works as a research associate on the CHAMP study. This is the first clinical trial of an investigational medicinal product conducted at Ulster University. The study is investigating the safety and efficacy of low dose atropine 0.01% and 0.02% at slowing the progression of myopia in children. This is a four year randomised, placebo control trial due for completion in late 2023. 

Prior to working on the CHAMP trial, Emma worked as a research associate and study coordinator on an Action Medical Research funded study called the Special Education Eyecare (SEE) project. This important work tested a framework for the provision of a comprehensive eye examination for children attending special schools. Children received a full eye examination in the familiar environment of their school. Following this, both parents and teachers were provided with a detailed, jargon-free written report which highlighted the results of the eye examination. If a child had a vision deficit, this was highlighted in the report and practical strategies to alleviate the impact of this vision deficit both at home and at school were provided. Results of this project found that when children's vision needs were met, they demonstrated greater classroom engagement and behaviour. This work has highlighted the importance of providing comprehensive vision care to children attending special schools in order to ensure they achieve their maximum potential. 

Prior to this, Emma was involved in a study funded by the Macular Society which aimed to determine if higher levels of macular pigment optical density are associated with faster dark adaptation in patients with dry age-related macular degeneration.

Emma also works as a research optometrist for Queen's University Belfast at the Northern Ireland Clinical Research Facility (NICRF) and for the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust through the Northern Ireland Clinical Research Network (NICRN).