Professional Summary: Professor Anna Rumbach
Professor Anna Rumbach is a distinguished academic and clinician in the field of speech pathology at The University of Queensland, Australia. With a focus on dysphagia and neurogenic communication disorders, she has made significant contributions to both research and clinical practice, shaping the understanding and management of swallowing disorders in various populations.
Academic Background and Degrees
Professor Rumbach holds advanced qualifications in speech pathology, with her academic training rooted in evidence-based practice and clinical research. Specific details of her degrees include:
- PhD in Speech Pathology, The University of Queensland (completed in 2012), with a focus on dysphagia management following traumatic brain injury.
- Bachelor of Speech Pathology (Honours), The University of Queensland.
Research Specializations and Academic Interests
Professor Rumbach’s research primarily centers on dysphagia (swallowing disorders), particularly in the context of neurological conditions such as traumatic brain injury and stroke. Her academic interests include:
- Assessment and management of dysphagia in acute and rehabilitation settings.
- Neurogenic communication disorders.
- Clinical education and training for speech pathology students.
- Interdisciplinary approaches to patient care in hospital settings.
Career History and Appointments
Professor Rumbach has held several key positions at The University of Queensland and in clinical settings, reflecting her dual expertise in academia and practice:
- Associate Professor, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland (current).
- Program Coordinator, Bachelor of Speech Pathology (Honours), The University of Queensland.
- Clinical Educator and Researcher, with extensive experience in hospital-based speech pathology services.
Major Awards, Fellowships, and Honors
Professor Rumbach has been recognized for her contributions to speech pathology and clinical research. Notable accolades include:
- Early Career Researcher Award, The University of Queensland (specific year not publicly specified in available sources).
- Recognition for excellence in teaching and student supervision within the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences.
Key Publications
Professor Rumbach has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, contributing to the evidence base for dysphagia management. Selected key publications include:
- Rumbach, A., Ward, E. C., Cornwell, P. L., Bassett, L. V., & Muller, J. M. (2012). 'Clinical progression and outcome of dysphagia following paediatric traumatic brain injury: A prospective study.' Brain Injury.
- Rumbach, A., Ward, E. C., Cornwell, P. L., Bassett, L. V., Khan, A., & Muller, J. M. (2011). 'Incidence and predictive factors for dysphagia after thermal burn injury.' Journal of Burn Care & Research.
- Rumbach, A., Coombes, C., & Doeltgen, S. (2018). 'A retrospective clinical audit of pharyngeal pouch management in a major tertiary hospital.' Australian Journal of Otolaryngology.
Influence and Impact on Academic Field
Professor Rumbach’s work has had a profound impact on the field of speech pathology, particularly in the area of dysphagia management. Her research has informed clinical guidelines and practices for assessing and treating swallowing disorders in acute care and rehabilitation settings. Additionally, her commitment to clinical education has shaped the training of future speech pathologists, ensuring evidence-based practice is embedded in the curriculum at The University of Queensland.
Public Lectures, Committees, and Editorial Contributions
Professor Rumbach is actively involved in the academic and professional community, contributing through various roles:
- Regular presenter at national and international conferences, including the Dysphagia Research Society Annual Meeting.
- Member of professional committees within Speech Pathology Australia, advocating for advancements in clinical practice standards.
- Reviewer for peer-reviewed journals in the field of speech pathology and rehabilitation sciences (specific journals not publicly listed in available sources).