Prestigious Research Council role for Faculty Deputy

Professor Chris Kennard is appointed to the body determining the strategy and policy of the Medical Research Council - News

The Deputy Principal of Imperial's Faculty of Medicine has been appointed to the body which determines the strategy and policy of the Medical Research Council (MRC).

Professor Chris Kennard  has been selected for the Council of the MRC by the Science and Innovation Minister Lord Sainsbury.

Professor Kennard, who is head of the Department of Clinical Neuroscience, will also chair the MRC's Neuroscience and Mental Health Board, which oversees the award of grants to scientists in this area. The Board is made up of international scientific leaders in Neuroscience and Mental Health.

Professor Kennard's research interests cover various aspects of cognitive neuroscience, relating to visual and oculomotor function. His appointment will run until March 2010.

The MRC, which is publicly funded, aims to improve human health by supporting research and training scientists to meet the needs of the health services, the pharmaceutical and other health-related industries and universities. Imperial was awarded over GBP 14 million by the MRC in 2005-06.

Professor Kennard said: "This is a very interesting time to be joining the Council of the MRC in view of current discussions regarding the new single ring-fenced budget, announced by the Chancellor in March, to support health research, currently funded by the MRC and the NHS Research and Development Programme. As Chair of the Neuroscience Board I want to make sure the MRC is a major player in developing high quality translational reserach in neurological and psychiatric diseases where exciting opportunities abound, as well as continue to support cutting-edge basic research in brain mechanisms."

Sir Anthony Cleaver, Chairman of the MRC, said: "I am very pleased to welcome Professor Kennard to the Medical Research Council. Professor Kennard will be a huge asset to the MRC. His knowledge of research strategies and expertise in clinical medicine will be of enormous benefit."

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