Prof Wiebke Arlt appointed President of the European Society of Endocrinology

Professor Wiebke Arlt has been appointed President of the ESE—becoming the first woman to hold this prestigious role

Professor Wiebke Arlt, Director of the MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences (LMS) and Professor of Medicine at Imperial College London, was confirmed at the European Society of Endocrinology's (ESE) Annual General Meeting, held during the Joint Congress of the European Society of Endocrinology and the European Society for Paediatric Endocrinology in Copenhagen. The event brought together more than 7,500 delegates from over 100 countries, underscoring the global reach of the Society and the significance of its leadership.

A vision for endocrinology

Professor Arlt’s appointment recognises her international standing as a clinician scientist and her contributions to endocrine research, clinical innovation and advocacy for inclusion within science and medicine.

Since joining the LMS in 2023, Professor Arlt has led the institute’s mission to translate fundamental science into experimental medicine. She has championed a ‘team science’ approach—bringing together discovery scientists and clinician scientists to foster interdisciplinary collaboration.

Her research focuses on the role of steroids in health and disease, with her group making major advances in understanding polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Her work explores the mechanisms of androgen excess and its metabolic consequences, aiming to improve diagnosis and treatment for those affected by PCOS.

Professor Arlt also plays a key role in strengthening the partnership between Imperial and the LMS. She is a leading advocate for integrated clinician scientist development and has spearheaded the expansion of the Chain Florey Clinical Research Fellowships, which train medical doctors in translational research. She has also been instrumental in launching new fellowship programmes supporting researchers from Black heritage backgrounds, promoting a more inclusive research culture and championing the next generation of scientific leaders.

Looking ahead

Professor Arlt’s vision for the ESE presidency is rooted in diversity, equity and inclusion. She has led initiatives such as the European Women in Endocrinology (EUWIN) network and actively supports the ESE Young Endocrinologists & Scientists (EYES) committee, providing crucial platforms for mentoring and professional development.

Looking ahead, her priorities include strengthening links between basic, clinical and translational science across the endocrine field. She aims to broaden engagement with early career researchers, discovery scientists and industry partners—ensuring that the Society remains dynamic, inclusive and globally relevant.

A significant milestone

Professor Arlt’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for the ESE as it grows its influence across education, research and policy. Her leadership marks an important milestone for the endocrine field and for women in science.

“We're delighted that Wiebke's leadership, both in science and her commitment to developing early career researchers, has been recognised." Professor Graham Cooke

Professor Graham Cooke, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, said: “We're delighted that Wiebke's leadership, both in science and her commitment to developing early career researchers, has been recognised and congratulate her on this prestigious appointment as we look to strengthen our collaborations across Europe.”

Imperial congratulates Professor Arlt on this outstanding achievement and looks forward to supporting her as she leads the European endocrine community into a new era of collaboration and discovery.