Niamh Gale

DClinRes Student

I am a Lecturer in Medical Imaging at the University of Exeter and am currently studying for a Doctorate in Clinical Research (DClinRes), with a focus on osteoporosis. There is growing evidence that fingernail composition may reflect bone density in females, suggesting that fingernails could potentially be used as a simple, non-invasive screening tool for osteoporosis in the future. My research aims to investigate whether this relationship also exists in males. With around one in five men in the UK affected by osteoporosis, many of whom remain undiagnosed, there is a need for improved screening approaches.

Using Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) and Raman Spectroscopy, I am exploring the link between fingernail composition and bone health under the supervision of Associate Professor Rob Meertens and Professor Francesca Palombo. This interdisciplinary project brings together expertise from the Department of Health and Care Professions and the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Exeter, highlighting the value of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing important healthcare challenges.