The honorary role, which runs until 2017, will see Dr Nelson working with Professor Frances Rapport and the Qualitative Enquiry Supporting Trials (QUEST) Unit at Swansea, which is based in the College of Medicine.

QUEST links qualitative methods to clinical trials and is currently involved in trials in cancer, respiratory and gastroenterological health.

As part of her new role, Dr Nelson visited Swansea University earlier in March to give a talk to staff, students and fellow researchers on ‘Embedding qualitative research with clinical trials: Why, how and what we learn’.

At the Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Centre at Cardiff University, Dr Nelson conducts research with a focus on patient and carer experience, especially their experience in taking part in clinical trials.

Dr Annmarie Nelson said: “I was absolutely delighted to accept this esteemed position at one of Wales’ leading universities, and I look forward to working alongside Professor Frances Rapport and the research community in Swansea over the coming months.”

Professor Frances Rapport said: “I am delighted to have Annmarie on board with the work of QUEST at Swansea University.  With Annmarie working alongside us we plan to increase our collaborative working in trials, across south east and mid west Wales.

“Her involvement also ensures that an excellent standard of trials outputs can continue, taking us from strength to strength in joint research achievements.”

Dr Sabine Best, Head of Research at Marie Curie, added: “I am thrilled that Annmarie’s unique contribution to research into the experience of patients and carers has been acknowledged in this way, and I am sure the rest of my Marie Curie colleagues will join me in congratulating Annmarie on this significant achievement.”