Professor Nicky Leap is currently the Adjunct Professor of Midwifery, Faculty of Nursing Midwifery and Health UTS Visiting Professor, Florence Nightingale School of Nursing and Midwifery, Kings College, London 2010-2012 International Francine Gooris Chair for Midwifery, University College Arteveldehoge school, Ghent, Belgium.

For over twenty-five years, Nicky has worked across midwifery research, education and practice in both the UK and Australia. She was integrally involved in the development and implementation of the Australian Bachelor of Midwifery programs in South Australia and at UTS and has had a leadership role in developing national standards for midwifery education and practice in Australia. Nicky has played a pivotal role in both Australia and the UK in the development and evaluation of midwifery continuity of care models, including the implementation of NSW's first publicly funded homebirth program.

Nicky led a two year pilot study to develop, implement and test Centering Pregnancy, an innovative program combining antenatal care, education and support for pregnant women in small groups. Nicky was the Professor of Midwifery Practice Development and Research for South East Sydney and Illawarra Area Health Service from 2006 - 2010 (Director of Midwifery Practice 2002 - 2006 in the same area health service)Nicky completed her Professional Doctorate in Midwifery at UTS, her dissertation examining the role and culture of rhetorical innovations and intentional strategies in the development of Australian midwifery. Nicky has held a visiting researcher position at Kings College London since 2005.

Her research activities at Kings include a Department of Health (UK) funded study with Professor Jane Sandall to develop and evaluate interactive learning resources and workshops for midwifery and medical students and maternity staff, with an aim to promote normal birth and a positive experience for women.