The NIHR Research Professorships scheme funds and supports research leaders of the future to improve the health and wealth of the nation through research. It also aims to strengthen and benefit health, public health and care research leadership at the highest academic levels.
This year, six researchers will receive five-year awards of up to £2 million to carry out research that will positively impact the lives of people and communities across the UK. They will receive a package of extensive support. This includes three support posts and access to a leadership and development programme.
Professor Matthew Ridd said: "I am delighted to have been given this award. It is ten years since a GP and five years since a paediatrician was awarded an NIHR Research Professorship, and this is the first one to fund work in allergy. It will enable me to build on my previous research and accelerate progress in answering common, practical questions in primary care. This includes how to best support parents to look after children with eczema, and what the research priorities for the prevention and care of children with food allergy are.
"I look forward to working with old and new partners, including patients, charities and specialist colleagues, to tackle some of the serious challenges these conditions pose."