Marianne was born and brought up in a farming community in Scotland and from an early age was taught to care for and nurture our animals.

Initially she studied for a BSc (Hons) in Parasitology including a work placement in New Zealand, then travelled in Africa, Australia, India and the Pacific. Her interest in the human condition grew as she saw the effect different cultures, politics, poor infrastructure and health care had on communities.

In Afghanistan less than 15% of births are attended by a health professional, in Norway it is almost 100%. The risk of women dying due to pregnancy related causes in Niger is 1 in 7, in Ireland 1 in 47,600.

Following a break where she spent time with her two children, Marianne believes that her experiences influenced her decision for her future career. She completed an MSc in Human Nutrition and has also completed a clinical degree in Midwifery.

She currently works as a midwife for NHS Tayside and use the different knowledge and influences which have brought her to this point, to provide care in a woman centered manner. Marianne says that she is fortunate to work with a good and supportive team of midwives and that she hopes to further her career by combining midwifery with research.