The University of Sheffield is celebrating a remarkable achievement as six of our outstanding researchers have been recognised as National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Senior Investigators. Five of our researchers have been newly appointed, while one has been reappointed - a testament to their exceptional contributions to health and care research.
NIHR Senior Investigators are at the forefront of research across social care, public health, methodology, pharmacy, dentistry and clinical research. These leaders shape national health and care policies, mentor the next generation of researchers, and foster a culture of collaboration that promotes patient and public involvement. Their work embodies NIHR’s vision of advancing research that improves health, care, and outcomes for all.
Meet our newly appointed and reappointed Senior Investigators:
Dilly Anumba, Chair and Consultant of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, said: “I am thrilled to have been appointed an NIHR Senior Investigator in recognition of my contribution to research leadership and to developing the next generation of researchers. Working with NIHR and global academics, this recognition spurs me to redouble my transformative research efforts to improve the lives of families and communities.”
Andrew Booth, Professor in Evidence Synthesis, added: "I feel honoured to be recognised by the research community as an NIHR Senior Investigator. It’s a privilege to lead evidence synthesis that shapes health policy and practice while mentoring the next generation of researchers to improve lives."
Zoe Marshman, Professor of Dental Public Health and Honorary Consultant in Dental Public Health, said: “I am so pleased and honoured to join the College of Senior Investigators. I am very grateful for the support from my colleagues and mentors to reach this stage in my career. I look forward to championing excellent research, informing policy and supporting others to improve oral health outcomes.”
Liddy Goyder, Professor of Public Health, expressed: "I’m delighted to be joining the NIHR college as one of their newly appointed Senior Investigators. At such a challenging time for population health and wellbeing, it has never been so important to ensure that we maximise the impact of public health research on tackling the wider determinants of poor health and inequalities."
Arshad Majid, Professor of Cerebrovascular Neurology and Consultant Neurologist, said: “I am extremely honoured to be named an NIHR Senior Investigator. This award will help me to initiate and strengthen collaborations, mentor emerging talent, and extend our commitment to patient and public involvement in all aspects of our projects. I look forward to continuing to support NIHR’s vision by bringing tangible, positive change for the benefit of patients.”
Alicia O’Cathain, Professor of Health Services Research, said: “I’m really pleased to have a second term as a NIHR Senior Investigator. The renewal of this award will help me to build on the work I've been doing to support social scientists, methodologists, social care researchers and allied health professionals to lead research programmes in areas that matter to users of healthcare, social care and the voluntary/charities sector.”
NIHR Senior Investigators are pivotal in driving research excellence, serving on funding committees and boards, and providing strategic leadership at regional and national levels. Their work champions the involvement of patients and communities, ensuring that research is aligned with the needs and priorities of society.
As the University of Sheffield continues to lead innovative, world-class research, the recognition of these exceptional individuals by the NIHR highlights the strength and breadth of our research community. We look forward to seeing how their work continues to shape health policy, improve outcomes, and inspire future researchers.