Bangor University: Bangor Academics To Play Vital Role In Developing The Health And Care Research Community In Wales
Health and Care Research Wales has announced its next cohort of Senior Research Leaders and Specialty Leads from across academia and the NHS in Wales, to act as ambassadors for research into diseases, treatments and services that can change people’s lives and drive improvements in patient care.
Amongst the 14 Senior Research Leaders appointed are Jane Noyes, Professor of Health and Social Care Services Research and Child Health, and Dyfrig Hughes, Professor of Pharmaeconomics, Co-Director of the Centre for Health Economics and Medicines Evaluations and Director of Research at the School of Medical and Health Sciences.
They will take up the role for the next three years, and will play a vital role in developing the health and care research community in Wales, mentoring early career researchers and developing the next generation of research leaders.
A picture of Professor Jane NoyesProfessor Jane Noyes
Professor Noyes, said: “I am delighted to have been selected as a Senior Research Leader in recognition of my research and mentorship. My selection is testament to Bangor University’s commitment to developing researchers and building research capacity and capability, and to delivering impactful research exploring and tackling some of the most challenging health and social issues. I look forward to providing continued leadership to the research community.”
A picture of Professor Dyfrig HughesProfessor Dyfrig Hughes
Professor Hughes, said: “I believe this appointment recognises the excellent research conducted by members of the Pharmaceutical Economics, Policy and Prescribing Research group at Bangor, both past and present. I’m very pleased to have been appointed, and look forward to making further contributions to, and supporting the Health and Care Research Wales Faculty.”
Professor Kieran Walshe, Director of Health and Care Research Wales, said: “Our Senior Research Leaders are among the most prominent and prestigious health and care researchers in the country. We look to them to provide leadership and to act as ambassadors and advocates for health and care research.
“We are currently establishing a new Health and Care Research Wales Faculty, designed to provide expanded and more integrated opportunities for research career development. Our new Senior Research Leaders will play a central role in this new faculty.”
In recognition of their important role and the contribution they make to building and supporting the health and social care research community in Wales, Senior Research Leaders receive a discretionary annual award of up to £20,000 which is invested in their research activity.
31 Specialty Leads have also been appointed to provide strategic support within specialties such as cardiovascular disease, critical care, stroke, diabetes, cancer and mental health and represent Wales at a UK level.
Dr Nicola Williams, Director of Support & Delivery at Health and Care Research Wales, said:
“The pandemic has demonstrated just how important research has been and as we move forward, it’s important that Wales plays a part in the recovery of the UK’s clinical research portfolio, helping to address some of the new challenges faced by the NHS and social care.
“Our Specialty Leads are experienced and high-calibre clinical leaders who are able to command the respect of colleagues across the UK and who also champion research in their area of expertise in Wales.
“Ensuring a Welsh voice at the UK specialty discussions is essential as we look forward to the opportunities ahead.”