Introducing our 2023 Joint British Geriatrics Society / Dunhill Medical Trust Doctoral Training Fellow

We are delighted to announce Dr Liam Barrett as the most recent recipient of our Joint Doctoral Training Fellowship with the British Geriatrics Society (BGS).

Dr Liam Barrett, our 2023 Joint BGS / DMT Doctoral Training Fellow.

Dr Barrett’s fellowship was awarded under the fifth round of the scheme, aimed at supporting frontline healthcare professionals interested in advancing ageing-related research, which opened in early 2023. You can read how the scheme is helping to support careers in clinical ageing-related research in our recent news item.

All eligible applications underwent external peer review and were then assessed by the shortlisting / interview panel, who made the final funding recommendation. The success rate for this round was 28%, including an additional PhD fellowship that thematically aligned with one of our theme calls, more details can be found here. The panel consisted of:

  • Professor Andrew Clegg (University of Leeds and DMT Research Grants Committee member)
  • Professor Dame Louise Robinson (Newcastle University and DMT Research Grants Committee member)
  • Dr Sarah Hopkins (University of Cambridge and current Joint BGS / DMT Research Training Fellow)
  • Professor Susan Shenkin (University of Edinburgh and BGS representative)

Dr Barrett will pursue a DPhil (Doctor of Philosophy) in Medical Sciences at the University of Oxford. His doctoral research will focus on investigating the impact of ageing and blood thinners on bleeding and clotting in older adults facing traumatic injuries like hip fractures. The study will specifically examine blood vessel cells in both younger and older adults, assessing their responses to injury and blood thinners. The ultimate aim is to provide critical insights that could guide decisions on managing blood thinners and the timing of surgery in older patients, potentially reducing surgical delays and complications.

The panel was deeply impressed by the relevance and potential impact of Liam’s proposal, highlighting its promise in enhancing care for older individuals. We eagerly anticipate following his progress in the coming years.

For more details on Liam’s research and to hear from him directly about his fellowship, please visit the BGS website.

Feel free to explore our other funding opportunities and take a look at the stories from our award-holders.To stay informed about our future activities and funding calls, join our mailing list by adding your details to the ‘Join our community’ section of our “Contact us” page.

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