Professor Tom Solomon is among 50 world-leading UK researchers to be elected to the prestigious Fellowship of the Academy of Medical Sciences.
The new Fellows have been selected for their exceptional contributions to the advancement of medical science through innovative research discoveries and translating scientific developments into benefits for patients and the wider society.
Professor Solomon is Chair of Neurology and Director of the National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections at the University of Liverpool. The unit was involved in the UK research response to Ebola, and then Zika, and most recently the COVID-19 pandemic. He also leads the Liverpool Brain Infections Group, which works to reduce the burden of neurological disease in the UK and globally, through research, training and capacity building, and public engagement.
Professor Solomon said: “I am thrilled to be elected to the Fellowship of the Academy of Medical Sciences. I see it as recognition for the work of our large team on brain infections and emerging infections over many years. This includes clinicians and researchers, plus patients and members of the public.”
The Academy’s 2021 new Fellows include experts who have spearheaded the COVID-19 response and provided of independent advice to the Government during the pandemic, while others have continued to advance biomedical sciences in innovative ways for health challenges beyond the pandemic.
Professor Dame Anne Johnson, President of the Academy of Medical Sciences, said: “I am truly delighted to welcome these 50 new Fellows to the Academy’s Fellowship, and I offer my congratulations to each of them on their exceptional contribution to biomedical and health science. The knowledge, skill and influence that each brings to the Fellowship is the Academy’s most powerful asset.
“The last year has clearly demonstrated the power and prowess of UK biomedical science, and I am proud of how many Fellows, new and old, have been at the forefront of the COVID-19 response in the UK and globally.”
Professor Louise Kenny, Executive Pro Vice Chancellor of the University’s Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, added: “The Academy of Medical Sciences celebrates the brightest and best medical scientists in the UK, and harnesses their expertise for the benefit of wider society. This is wonderful news for the University of Liverpool and acknowledges the outstanding contribution Tom has made over many years.”