International Nurses Day - meet Olajumoke Owolabi

As a research nurse, Olajumoke Owolabi is at the forefront of many exciting advances in healthcare.

Based at the William Harvey Hospital, she works across specialties to deliver clinical research studies, from trials of new drugs and medical devices to projects focused on improving care through data and evidence. Her work supports the development of safer, more effective treatments for patients today and in the future

It is a field that appealed to her from when she was a student, and one she hopes will help her leave a lasting legacy.

Olajumoke said: “I have found a career pathway I want to grow in, one where I can make a positive impact, solve real clinical problems and support change through evidence-based practice.

‘My goal is to be a change agent: using research, data and innovation to improve care, while supporting colleagues to embed evidence into everyday practice.”

Olajumoke trained in Nigeria and worked in a large teaching hospital rotating across various medical wards.

Nine years ago, she moved to the UK, worked in a care home, mental health hospital, as a functional assessor and in a private hospital before spotting the advert for her current post.

She said: “I was anxious about the move, having lived in Nigeria for nearly three decades, it came with challenges, but also growth and new opportunities.

“It hasn’t all been easy, and I miss my family, but video calls are great.

“I have always loved to help people and it is a privilege to be able to turn that strength into a career.

“I enjoyed research and the methodical nature of it from my time as a student. It can be challenging but I always put in more effort when I find something challenging.

“Research can feel unfamiliar or even daunting to patients and staff, but everything we consider standard care today started as research. The work we do now builds the evidence that will improve treatment and outcomes in the future.”

Looking ahead, Olajumoke is clear about the legacy she wants to build.

“I want to leave a legacy of impact – where my work contributes to safer systems, better patient outcomes and a stronger culture of learning in healthcare. I hope to inspire others to see research not as an optional extra, but as a core part of clinical practice.”