Dr Senthila Quirke
Reader - Academic Development (Education)

Summary

Dr Senthila Quirke is a higher education specialist with a passion for advancing teaching, learning, and researcher development. Combining a strong scientific background with expertise in education, she designs evidence-informed learning experiences that empower students and educators to thrive.

She is a graduate of Queen Mary University of London and earned her PhD from King's College London. With an early career rooted in biomedical innovation, she contributed as a member of the original team of scientists at the Advanced Technology Development Group, Gray Cancer Institute, University of Oxford, that developed the Oxford Optronix Mammalian Cell Colony Counter, enhancing the accuracy and reproducibility of imaging in cancer research.

She subsequently completed an MA in Education at Brunel University of London, applying Bourdieu's theory of capital alongside Louise Archer's Science Capital framework to explore access and inclusion in STEM education and careers. She develops and delivers programmes that foster academic excellence, reflective practice, and inclusive learning environments, drawing on interdisciplinary perspectives to support educators and researchers to strengthen their teaching and career development.

Committed to giving back to society, she actively contributes through public engagement, outreach, skills training, and mentoring initiatives, inspiring the next generation of students, researchers, and educators to pursue opportunities in higher education.

Qualifications

PhD in Bioimaging and Biophysics funded by the MRC, Division of Cancer Research, King’s College London

MEng Master’s degree in Medical Engineering, School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London

MA in Education, Specialism: STEM Education, Brunel University of London

Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA)

Level 3 Award in Leadership and Management, Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM)

Graduate Certificate in Academic Practice, King’s Institute of Learning and Teaching, currently known as King’s Academy, King’s College London

Responsibility

Lead the Higher Education Teaching and Learning (HETL) programme, APDU, Brunel University of London

Lead the Initial Training for Graduate Teaching Assistants and Demonstrators, APDU, Brunel University of London

Facilitate educators from across the University community to achieve professional recognition via Advance HE fellowships, APDU, Brunel University of London

Review and assess applications for Advance HE Fellowship, APDU, Brunel University of London

Advise candidates on the Level 7 Academic Professional Programme (APP) for new academics, APDU, Brunel University of London

Consult on matters relating to Doctoral Researcher development, academic practice, mentoring, pedagogical research, online course development, personal development in academic career contexts 

0.2 Lecturer in College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University of London