Professor Sandosh Padmanabhan appointed as Pontecorvo Chair
Published: 20 February 2024
Professor Sandosh Padmanabhan appointed at the inaugural holder of the Pontecorvo Chair in Pharmacogenomics.
We are thrilled to announce the appointment of Professor Sandosh Padmanabhan as the inaugural holder of the Pontecorvo Chair in Pharmacogenomics, a landmark moment for our university and a significant leap forward in our pursuit of excellence in genomic research and precision medicine.
The chair is named in honour of Prof Guido Pontecorvo, the University's first Professor of Genetics from 1955 to 1968, and a pivotal figure in modern genetics. The chair is backed by a £2.11M endowment generously provided by Dr. Elizabeth Boyd, a distinguished alumna whose groundbreaking work in neonatal screening has left an indelible mark on the medical community. Dr. Boyd’s philanthropy, inspired by her deep admiration for Prof Pontecorvo and her commitment to advancing genomic research for patient benefit, has facilitated this monumental contribution to the field. This professorship was created by the University of Glasgow Court in the form of a Resolution effective 1 October 2023.
Professor Padmanabhan’s appointment to the Pontecorvo Chair is a testament to his outstanding contributions to pharmacogenomics and his vision for its future. It not only recognizes Prof. Padmanabhan’s achievements but also reflects the University's dedication to leading-edge research and innovation. Professor Padmanabhan's vision for the Pontecorvo Chair is both ambitious and transformative. It revolves around leveraging the power of pharmacogenomics to usher in a new era of personalized medicine, where treatments are tailored to the genetic profile of individual patients, thereby enhancing efficacy, and reducing adverse effects. This vision not only aligns with the cutting-edge research already underway at our institution but also promises to propel us into a leadership position in the global arena of precision medicine.
The establishment of the Pontecorvo Chair in Pharmacogenomics aligns seamlessly with the school’s broader goals and aspirations. It underscores our commitment to pioneering research that addresses the pressing health challenges of our time, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and nurturing the next generation of scientific leaders. This chair will serve as a cornerstone for our efforts to enhance the impact of our research, extend our international collaborations, and contribute to the economic and social well-being of our community and beyond. We are confident that this initiative will not only advance the frontiers of science but also pave the way for a new era of personalized medicine, benefiting individuals and societies around the globe.
First published: 20 February 2024