Dr Awais Mashkoor is a Lecturer in Collaborative Health and Social Care at the University of the West of Scotland, specialising in health and social care integration, interdisciplinary collaboration, and evidence-informed practice. His expertise spans governance, leadership, and policy implementation, equipping students to navigate complex and evolving care systems.

His research focuses on integrated care, workforce development, and collaborative governance, with a strong emphasis on equity, cultural competence, and sustainability. His PhD examined the role of local political leaders in shaping Scotland’s health and social care integration, providing insights into governance structures, leadership strategies, and multi-agency collaboration.

Dr Mashkoor is actively involved in evaluating Scotland’s National Care Service (NCS), addressing workforce challenges in social care, and examining anticipatory and preventative care models. His work bridges academia and policy, informing evidence-based teaching that prepares students for leadership in integrated care. He activley collaborates with government bodies, international organisations and policy stakeholders, including as an advisor to the Scottish Government’s Workforce Charter Advisory Panel, ensuring his research and teaching remain policy-relevant and practice-informed. 

Health & Social Care Policy and Governance

• Health and social care integration
• Collaborative governance and multi-agency working
• Policy analysis, evaluation, and evidence-based decision-making
• Leadership in integrated care systems

Public Policy & Administration

• Local political leadership and stakeholder engagement
• Multi-level governance and regulatory frameworks
• Workforce development and service transformation

Research Methods & Applied Inquiry

• Qualitative research techniques (elite interviewing, documentary analysis)
• Action research and practice-based inquiry
• Policy impact assessment and knowledge mobilisation

Health and Social Care Integration in Scotland

• Ongoing analysis of the role of local political leaders in shaping the planning and implementation of health and social care integration
• Examination of challenges and opportunities in implementing Scotland's National Care Service, with a focus on insights from local strategic stakeholders

Culture, Leadership, and Integration in National Care Service Development

• Collaborative research project exploring the journey towards 'We Are the NCS' (National Care Service)
• Interdisciplinary study involving perspectives from social impact leadership and management

My teaching incorporates scenario-based learning, reflective practice, and digital tools to enhance student engagement and professional readiness. I contribute to curriculum development in collaborative health and social care, ensuring alignment with sector needs, academic standards, and professional competencies. My approach integrates blended learning, flipped classrooms, interactive simulations, and real-world case studies to foster critical thinking and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Previously, I played a key role in developing the Master of Public Administration (MPA) programme, including designing a Collaborative Governance module that bridges theory and practice through innovative assessment strategies.

I am keen to expand my work on workforce development in the care sector, investigating innovative strategies for recruitment, retention, and skills development. This research takes an interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights from public policy, organisational psychology, and management studies to address workforce challenges in health and social care.

Additionally, I am interested in the intersection of digital technology and public policy, particularly how digital tools can enhance citizen participation in health and social care decision-making and improve service delivery. This research involves interdisciplinary collaborations, including engagement with experts in digital governance, computer science, and digital humanities.

1. Scottish Government - Health and Social Care Directorate
   Focus: Collaborate on research related to the National Care Service implementation and workforce development in the care sector.
2. NHS Scotland
   Focus: Partner on projects evaluating health and social care integration models and their impact on service delivery.
3. Convention of Scottish Local Authorities (COSLA)
   Focus: Engage in research on local governance and leadership in health and social care reform.
4. Scottish Care
   Focus: Collaborate on workforce development initiatives and policy research in the care sector.
5. KPMG or Deloitte (Public Sector Consulting divisions)
   Focus: Partner on projects evaluating public sector reforms and governance models.