Saira Hussain

I have been a part of the audiology world from an academic standpoint since 2009, having graduated with a BSc (Hons) Audiology from the University of Bristol in 2013, and the STP MSc in 2016 from the University of Manchester. I have actually been exposed to the audiology world since birth as my dad has a congenital hearing loss. Although this did not motivate me to study audiology, it has been an important factor in understanding the impact hearing loss can have on individuals and their families.

I am a registered Clinical Scientist, and after working the NHS for the duration of my STP, I moved over to a Higher Education Institute. I have since taught at Aston University’s Audiology Department since 2016, teaching across the undergraduate and postgraduate programmes offered. I also lead on Audiology’s inter-professional learning experiences with the pharmacy, medical and optometry schools. It’s important that students are provided with an all-rounded education, all within a patient-centred approach. Teaching has been an enriching experience, and during my time at Aston I achieved a PGCert in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education. I subsequently continued to achieve my Masters in Education, and I’m a recognised Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. I have a particular focus on student engagement and outreach activities, volunteering as a STEM ambassador. I am part of the Learning and Teaching and Quality Team within the university, and also part of the National School of Healthcare Science STP curriculum review.

My ambition is to ensure students, young professionals and those that are under represented in the audiology field have a voice and can find themselves benefitting from BAA membership.

Outside of audiology, I enjoy travelling and completed the ’30 countries by 30’ challenge!