I have been trained as an epidemiologist, which allowed me to lead studies using a range of methodologies, including systematic reviews, diagnostic and prognostic studies, and (cluster) randomised trials. My research focuses on musculoskeletal conditions, but have a strong interest in other common symptoms, such as fatigue, dizziness, headache and abdominal pain, and the impact of pain in people with other long-term conditions. I have a strong interest in research methods, and am involved in research exploring methods for diagnostic and prognosis research. Other interests concern trial methodology and the methodology of systematic reviews of diagnostic, prognostic and intervention studies. Current studies include identification of ‘phenotypes’ of pain problems (different approaches to definition and classification of pain, as pain location or medical diagnosis may not always be the optimal approach); understanding prognosis and predictors of long-term health outcomes and response to treatment; optimising usefulness and application and of prognostic information in clinical care, including the development and evaluation of stratified care.