The best research dissertations produced by postgraduate students in each of Bristol University’s six faculties have been announced. The recipients, selected for the exceptional quality of their research work, have each been awarded a cash prize and a certificate of commendation in recognition of the honour.  One winner is selected from each faculty by members of the Research Degrees Examination Board, which oversees the exam process for research awards.  Dr Fran Carroll the prize for the best PhD thesis in the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry

Dr Carroll’s research investigated the decision-making process for couples considering antenatal screening for Downs syndrome. Respondents to the survey showed a good understanding of the risks involved, but preferences varied about the way the information was presented. The focus on couples, and the inclusion of male partners as participants, is rare and makes an important contribution to the research literature. Presenting risk information in a variety of ways, and resources that provide access to others’ experiences of making decisions about antenatal screening, emerged as vital to the process.