I'm a doctor researcher and health educator

Here you can learn more about my journey, from medical school to the present day. It's been a winding path and I hope it might inspire you to 'think outside the box', follow your passions and take a leap of faith once in a while!

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Who am I?

Hi, I'm James! I trained as a doctor, but wear many hats: I’m now Research Director for a global health non-profit and WHO advisor. On the side, I'm the face behind 'Doctor O’Donovan' on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram, helping to empower over 300k people on their health journeys.

My career has taken an unconventional winding path, and here I’ll share my reflections and insights on this journey. Whether you're a student or a professional I hope my story might inspire you.

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My Journey

From medical student to doctor, researcher and educator.

2008-2015

I studied medicine (MBBS) at Newcastle University. Between 2011-2012 
I undertook a Masters Degree (MRes) in Ageing and Health.

2013

I won a Kennedy Scholarship to attend Harvard University.

2015-2017

I worked as a 'junior doctor' in Peterborough and Cambridge and had jobs in medicine, surgery and psychiatry.

2018-2021

I undertook my PhD at the University of Oxford in Digital Education. I did my fieldwork in Uganda.

2021-2023

I moved back to Newcastle to undertake higher clinical training in family medicine (GP).

2022

I reached 100,000 subscribers and 30 million views on YouTube.

2023-now

I am currently a Research Director at a Global Health organisation and a Technical Advisor for the World Health Organization.

Join In and Drive Global Health Impact

Discover how you can play a crucial role in advancing global healthcare. Here are some impactful ways you can get involved today

Share Verified Content

Verify, Share and Follow Medical YouTube Videos

Dive into the world of medical education on YouTube. Always ensure the content you watch is credible by checking the qualifications of content creators and cross-referencing their claims with reputable medical sources. This helps promote informed healthcare decisions.

Support Vital Causes

Donate to Medical Charities like Community Health Impact Coalition

Your contributions can make a real difference. Support organizations like the Community Health Impact Coalition, which work tirelessly to improve community health services worldwide. Every donation helps extend their reach and enhance their impact.

Partner with Innovators

Collaborate and Share Innovative Medical Products

If you're a creator or distributor of medical products, partner with creators that can highlight and distribute your innovations. Sponsorships can introduce your products to wider audiences, enhancing healthcare outcomes through advanced tools and solutions.

Amplify Your Impact

Increase Medical Awareness by Launching Your Brand on YouTube

Take your passion for health to the masses by growing your Medical YouTube channel. Share your knowledge, grow your brand, and contribute to a better-informed and empowered public.

Spread Knowledge

Share Helpful Blogs, Videos, and Content

Help enrich your friends and family’s understanding of health by sharing insightful blogs and videos. Whether it's a new medical discovery or everyday health tips, spreading reliable information is key to building a healthier community.

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Let's make a difference together

I look forward to collaborating on spotlighting health products, raising awareness, and supporting global health initiatives to drive advancements in healthcare.

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