She has a longstanding research interest in the psychosocial issues associated [Page x]with Type 1 diabetes in children, adolescents, adults and other family members. Through her research she has gained an in-depth understanding of the factors that contribute to quality of life and the impact of diabetes on daily living. The effect of diabetes, both medically and socially in terms of everyday coping, psychosocial impact and psychological burden, is a multifaceted and complex area and Dr Barnard's research to date has made significant advances in the unravelling of these complexities for individuals living with the condition.