Professor Shakila Thangaratinam elected Vice President (International) for Academy of Medical Sciences
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The University of Liverpool’s Professor Shakila Thangaratinam has been elected as Vice President (International) of the Academy of Medical Sciences, bringing her extensive global health expertise to the organisation’s board of Honorary Officers.
Professor Thangaratinam’s appointment comes at a time when international scientific collaboration has never been more vital, not just in addressing health challenges but also overcoming complex geopolitical and funding barriers.
In her new role, Professor Thangaratinam will focus on maintaining the Academy’s international position, both protecting and advancing it’s policy influence and ongoing commitment to researcher support and engagement. Building on the Academy’s significant international portfolio, she will help to maintain a cohesive and strategic approach to engagement with European partners, low-and middle-income countries, and other key global stakeholders. In December 2025, she will be joining the Academy’s Honorary Officers board, which is responsible for guiding the Academy’s strategic direction.
Professor Thangaratinam brings significant experience to the role, having led large-scale, global research collaborations across more than 40 countries. Her work helped shape over 130 national and international policy documents, including clinical guidance on COVID-19 in pregnancy, gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia and epilepsy in pregnancy.
Professor Thangaratinam’s work is underpinned by extensive partnerships across the NHS, academic, industry and global networks. She has a long history of championing patient and public involvement (PPI) through initiatives like the Equal Voices Alliance, which spans 15 countries, making her well-placed to support the Academy’s PPI and international ambitions.
Professor of Women’s and Children’s Health and Deputy Executive Dean of the Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences Shakila Thangaratinam said: “I am honoured to be taking on the role of Vice President (International) at the Academy. Throughout my career, I have seen how global partnerships can propel science and improve health. At a time when international collaboration is more essential than ever, I look forward to bringing that experience to help amplify the Academy’s voice on the global stage.
“The Academy has long played a crucial role in championing interdisciplinary research and fostering global partnerships that span countries, sectors and disciplines. I am excited to build on that strong foundation and work alongside the Council, Officers and Fellowship to drive forward the Academy’s international strategy with the aim of creating an open and progressive research sector to improve the health of people everywhere.”
Academy President, Professor Andrew Morris CBE FRSE PMedSci said: “It is a privilege to congratulate and welcome Professor Shakila Thangaratinam on her appointment as Vice President (International). Shakila is recognised nationally and internationally for her outstanding leadership, her ability to unite researchers, and her commitment to advancing health through collaboration. At a time when global cooperation is the key to tackling health challenges, her expertise and vision will be invaluable.”
Professor Thanharanthinam succeeds the University’s Professor Tom Solomon, who has served as Vice President (International) since October 2021. During his tenure, Professor Solomon has been instrumental in advancing the Academy’s international strategy, forging meaningful global partnerships and championing an open, collaborative research environment.
Professor Morris added: “I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to Professor Tom Solomon CBE FMedSci for his exceptional leadership and dedication in driving forward the Academy’s international strategy. Thanks to Tom’s work, we have a strong foundation in place, and I look forward to working with Shakila as we build on that progress and continue to strengthen the Academy’s global impact.”