On Wednesday 3rd December, the KMMS Research team hosted colleagues and students from across the School, alongside guests from our Partner Universities, NHS Trusts, industry and other Higher Education Institutes at the Spotlight on Research: Innovation and Collaboration at KMMS event.
The afternoon featured a lively programme of talks from KMMS researchers, affiliate academics and PhD students, who showcased the wide range of research and innovation taking place locally and how the research culture in KMMS is rapidly growing and thriving.
Opening the afternoon, Professor Chris Holland, Dean of KMMS, highlighted the imperative nature of clinical research:
“Research is a fundamental engine that drives patient care, quality and safety. It’s the bridge between a Eureka moment in the laboratory and a life-saving treatment at the bedside… We’ve got to shorten the time it takes to get from the Eureka moment and making a difference in an NHS care environment.
I would like us all to leave today with commitment to break down our silos, to share resources and to invest in people who really want to bridge this gap between discovery and delivery. Because we all know when we put research first, we put the patient first.”
I would like us all to leave today with commitment to break down our silos, to share resources and to invest in people who really want to breach this gap between discovery and delivery. Because we all know when we put research first, we put the patient first.”
KMMS Year 2 student Annabelle presented her poster at the event
Delegates had the opportunity to contribute to enlightening Q&A sessions with each of the speakers, and network over refreshments whilst reviewing a selection of research posters prepared for the event – including those created by medical students who had completed NIHR-funded Research Internships and Intercalated Degrees.
Our Director of Research Professor Sukhi Shergill said:
“It was truly amazing to see the array of talented people attracted to collaborate together to carry out health research at KMMS. This gives hope to the people living in the region and the generations of doctors and healthcare professionals pursuing a career in health in Kent and Medway. The new medical school is developing an identity as a research h led teaching environment. A great showcase of research talent.”