She has an extensive background in operating room nursing, having worked across the private and public sectors. In recognition of her service to operating room nursing, Dr Gillespie was awarded the 2014-16 Excellence in Perioperative Nursing Award. Dr Gillespie is leading research in two important clinical areas; compromised skin integrity, and teamwork and communication in surgery. Dr Gillespie’s research in the compromised skin integrity has focussed on surgical wounds and pressure injury prevention. Dr Gillespie has authored over 70 peer-reviewed publications and three book chapters.