Director of the WCIP honoured
Published: 13 May 2020
Professor Andy Waters is named a new Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences
Professor Andy Waters is one of fifty new Fellows elected by the Academy of Medical Sciences, an independent UK body that aims to advance biomedical and health research and its benefits for society.
The new Fellows have been chosen for their exceptional contributions to advancing science via world-leading research discoveries, running national science communication and engagement programmes and translating scientific advances into benefits for patients and the public.
The value of medical science has never been more apparent than during the current coronavirus global health crisis. From testing and vaccine development, to public health and behavioural science, to addressing the impacts of lockdown measures on mental health, biomedical and health scientists are helping to guide the UK through unprecedented challenges. Several new Fellows have redirected their research efforts to tackle the effects of the pandemic. Andy Waters is working with international partners in Malawi to help with preparedness - demonstrating the collaborative and ‘team science’ nature that the Academy’s Fellowship strives to embody.
Professor Sir Robert Lechler PMedSci, President of the Academy of Medical Sciences said:
“I am delighted to welcome these 50 new Fellows into the Academy’s Fellowship. Each one has made their own outstanding contribution to biomedical science, and together they are advancing the health of our society in the UK and internationally. Their work affects us all, from the way we keep healthy through our lifestyle, to how we are treated if we become ill, to the way we receive information about health.
“This year our new Fellows announcement happens amidst a global health crisis. Some will face the challenge of how to continue to lead on some of the most pressing health challenges our society faces beyond coronavirus, such as heart disease, diabetes or cancer. Others have joined the global research effort to tackle the coronavirus pandemic, whether that be through working out how to treat those with the virus, joining efforts to develop a vaccine, or looking to limit the impact of the pandemic more broadly on our physical and mental health.
“Never has there been a more important time to recognise and celebrate the people behind ground-breaking biomedical and health research, working harder than ever to further knowledge and protect patients and the public.
“It brings me great pleasure to congratulate the new Fellows, and see our Fellowship grow to even greater heights of evidence-based advice, leadership and expertise.”
Professor Waters said:
"It is such an honour and pleasure to have been elected Fellow of the Academy of Medical Science. The Academy plays an important (inter)national role in promoting and advising on scientific matters and their place in society. This has come into sharp focus with the pandemic and I look forward to contributing to the Academy’s ongoing role in society."
Two other new fellows are from the University of Glasgow's Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, Professor Gerry Graham and Professor Hugh Willison. They will all be formally admitted to the Academy on 25 June 2020.
First published: 13 May 2020
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