The Academy of Medical Sciences champions the excellence and diversity of medical science in the UK, and this is clearly demonstrated in this year’s cohort of new Fellows. Their broad range of expertise and fantastic achievements to date shows just how strong the Fellowship is – from the NHS knowledge of Sir Andrew Dillon to the policy experience of Professor Christl Donnelly. Their election is a much deserved honour, and I know they will contribute greatly to the Academy. I am delighted to welcome them all to the Fellowship, and look forward to working with them in the future.
- Professor Sir John Tooke PMedSci, President of the Academy of Medical Sciences
Founded in 1998, the Academy of Medical Sciences is the independent body in the UK representing the diversity of medical science. Academy Fellows are elected for excellence in medical research, for innovative application of scientific knowledge or for their conspicuous service to healthcare.
Professor Irene Tracey's election recognises her work using advanced neuroimaging techniques, which has led to an understanding of how the human central nervous system processes and modulates nociceptive inputs to produce pain and analgesic experiences. She and her colleagues are also contributing to a better understanding of how the brain produces altered states of consciousness during anaesthesia. The award also reflects the contribution to medical science that Irene makes through her significant leadership responsibilities at the University of Oxford and on national and international committees and organisations.
Irene says: "I am honoured and delighted to be elected a Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences and I look forward to contributing to the Academy and its mission in the years to come".