Two Trust consultants appointed to prestigious national research position
The National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) has appointed Professor Waljit Dhillo and Professor Azeem Majeed as Senior Investigators, recognising their significant contributions to research focusing on the hormonal control of reproductive function and primary care and public health research respectively.
Professor Dhillo, a consultant endocrinologist, also leads research in the division of medicine and integrated care at the Trust and is a Professor of Endocrinology & Metabolism at Imperial College London. He holds several key research leadership roles including dean of the NIHR Academy and NIHR scientific director for research capacity and capabilities. Professor Dhillo also co-leads the Metabolic and Endocrine theme of the NIHR Imperial Biomedical Research Centre.
Professor Dhillo's pioneering work on neurokinin B has identified a new treatment for menopause, while his studies on a newly identified hormone, known as kisspeptin, have opened new avenues for potential treatments for infertility.
Professor Majeed, an honorary consultant in public health at the Trust and head of the department of primary care & public health at Imperial College London is also a Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences. He also holds an international role in public health and primary care through a position with the World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre for Public Health Education and Training at Imperial College London and is a part-time GP in Clapham, London.
Commenting on his appointment, Professor Dhillo said: “I am thrilled to have been appointed as an NIHR Senior Investigator but the award is a reflection of the brilliant team I work with who deliver our translational research.”
Professor Majeed is one of the highest cited primary care researchers globally. His work focuses on chronic disease management, health policy and the delivery of healthcare, including the use of data for policy, planning and research, developing innovative methodologies for primary care and use of new technology. His work has influenced key policy areas such as disease prevention, health surveillance, and NHS workforce development. His expertise in clinical medicine and public health helped promote positive public health messages during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Professor Majeed said: “I’m honoured to be appointed as an NIHR Senior Investigator. This recognition reflects the essential role of primary care and public health research in improving population health and reducing health inequalities."
The NIHR Senior Investigator scheme has long been recognised as a mark of distinction for leading researchers in health and care. Senior Investigators are outstanding research leaders in health and care, recognised for their significant contributions to the NIHR and the wider research landscape, influencing policy and providing mentorship to early-career researchers, as well as driving innovative research that improves health.
NIHR Senior Investigators serve on NIHR committees and boards, as NIHR ambassadors, demonstrate research excellence, contribute to national growth, and champion the involvement of patients and communities into research.
Professor Bob Klaber, director of strategy, research and innovation, said: “Professor Dhillo and Professor Majeed’s appointments as NIHR Senior Investigators are a testament to their dedication and significant impact in their respective fields. Both of their work not only enhances our scientific knowledge but also translates into tangible benefits for patients, making them very deserving recipients of this prestigious recognition.”
