Research leaders appointed to advance Southampton biomedical research

Two globally respected researchers are taking leading roles in the NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre (BRC).

Professor Nicholas Harvey has been appointed as the new Director Designate.

Professor Diana Baralle has been selected as the Director Designate co-lead.

Together, they will lead the development of the next phase of the research centre. Pending a successful award, this is expected to launch in 2028.

What is the BRC?

The NIHR Southampton BRC is a longstanding partnership between University Hospital Southampton and the University of Southampton.

It drives early-stage experimental medicine research and supports the translation of scientific discoveries.

It is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research.

The current BRC is delivering research across five strategic themes and will run until 2028. It is led by Professor Mike Grocott.

New Director Designate

Professor Harvey is recognised as one of the most prominent health researchers in the UK. He is an international leader in rheumatology research.

He uses a lifecourse approach to study the epidemiology, determinants, mechanisms and prevention of osteoporotic fractures. He is President of the International Osteoporosis Foundation, an NIHR Senior Investigator and a member of the WHO Bone Health Expert Advisory Group.

Professor Harvey said: “I am delighted and honoured to lead our bid for renewal of the NIHR Southampton BRC. I hugely look forward to working with Professor Baralle and colleagues across the University, NHS trust and the Wessex region.

“Working together, we will showcase our collective world-class experimental medicine and real-world clinical impact, underpinned by our exceptional Wessex translational ecosystem.”

‘Incredible progress’

Professor Baralle is internationally recognised for genomics research. She is a leading expert in genomics, new methods for genetic diagnostic testing, and the cause and treatment of rare disease syndromes.

She is an NIHR Senior Investigator and emeritus NIHR Research Professor. She is the genotype to phenotype domain lead for Genomics England and the current Vice President of the Clinical Genetics Society.

Professor Baralle said: “The NIHR Southampton BRC has achieved incredible progress over the years, driving research that truly changes lives. I’m excited to co-lead the next chapter, shaping bold plans for the future of experimental medicine. We will push boundaries so Southampton maintains its place as a global leader in innovation and patient care.”

Professor Grocott will continue to lead the current BRC until March 2028.

The application process and outcome are expected for the next BRC in the next 18 months. It would run for between five and seven years.