Newcastle public health researcher secures national fellowship to study impact of extreme heat on pregnancy and newborn health
Friday July 11, 2025
Dr Charlotte Parbery-Clark
Dr Charlotte Parbery-Clark, Honorary Consultant in Public Health and Doctoral Fellow at Newcastle University and Consultant in Public Health at Gateshead Council, has been awarded a National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Doctoral Research Fellowship. The study will look at understanding and reducing the impacts of high outdoor temperatures on pregnancy and newborn health in England.
Overview of project
Climate change is our biggest global health challenge of the 21st century. We are seeing steady increases in global average temperatures, including in England, with increased intensity, frequency, and duration of extreme heat (such as heatwaves) being recorded.
Certain groups are at higher risk of heat-related impacts, with increasing evidence that pregnant women are one of these groups.
Speaking about the importance of the study, Dr Parbery-Clark said “The research regarding the impact of high outdoor temperatures on pregnant women is very limited in England. People adapt to their local climate and health services differ between countries. Therefore, it is difficult to take findings, particularly the point at which temperatures increase risks to health, from one country and apply them to another.”
“The heatwave plans for England have only in 2024 included pregnant women as a vulnerable group in their guidance. However, despite being included in their list of vulnerable groups, the guidance itself is not specific to pregnant women.”
Charlotte’s research therefore aims to improve the understanding of the impact of high outdoor temperatures on pregnant mothers’, unborn babies’ and newborns’ health in England and develop an approach to reduce the health impacts by providing guidance and recommendations.
Dr Parbery-Clark’s journey with Newcastle Health Research Partnership Academy’s (NHRP) support
Charlotte first applied for the NIHR Doctoral Research Fellowship and was interviewed in November 2023. Although not successful the first time, she re-applied in July 2024 and was awarded the fellowship on her second attempt.
NHRP Academy provided continuous support to enhance her application for both applications. The support included Dr Amy Brown NHRP Academy Manager, helping to review the application. As well as organising coaching and running mock interviews to build confidence.
“The first-time round, it was a huge undertaking,” Charlotte reflected. “It demanded more than I had expected – both physically and mentally . But with NHRP’s coaching, I was able to tap into a new level of confidence and focus that helped me prepare optimally for the interview.”
In preparation for the second round, NHRP Academy arranged two mock interviews. “They took care of a large part of the logistics for the interview, including organising video recordings of the mocks and sending them to me for review. I am neurodivergent and NHRP’s support meant I could try out the adjustments in a safe space rather than having to test them during the actual interview. The level of care was really appreciated.”
“I have had amazing support throughout this journey from my supervisory team, colleagues and from the NHRP Academy,” Charlotte added. “Amy also recommended the Fellows Forum, which will give me opportunities to connect with others throughout the year.”
Charlotte’s story is a testament to how dedicated support, thoughtful coaching, and inclusive practice can make all the difference in competitive academic processes.
Dr Amy Brown, NHRP Academy Manager, said “We’re incredibly proud of Dr Parbery-Clark’s achievement. Her research addresses a vital and timely public health issue, and it’s been a privilege to support her journey. From application feedback to tailored interview preparation, our aim was to provide the practical and inclusive support needed to help her succeed.”
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