She was Visiting Assistant Professor in Laryngology and Bronchoesophagology at the University of California, Davis, until deciding to return home to NZ to establish the first centre for Voice and Swallowing in Auckland. She was also the first in NZ to perform in-office procedures such as transnasal oesphagoscopy and KTP laser laryngology procedures. Dr Allen is an Honorary Associate Professor University of Auckland, where she runs the University of Auckland Laboratory for Swallowing and Voice research, and is a grant-funded researcher. She is a member of the American Bronchoesophagological Association, President of the Dysphagia Research Society, Academy of Surgical Educators and NZ Society of Otolaryngology. Jacqui can often be found in the University Basement with her research sheep or at home with her daughter and husband.