This appointment was made following stakeholder presentations to which all ION staff were invited followed by a formal interview Chaired by the Dean of the faculty Professor Alan Thompson. Professor Rob Pitceathly will take over from Professor Linda Greensmith.
Professor Michael Hanna (Director of UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology) said: “This was a highly competitive process and I am grateful to all the applicants for putting themselves forward. Rob brings a wealth of experience in pre-clinical research, clinical research and translation into clinical trials in neuromuscular diseases. He has a track record of leading national MRC networks and NHS highly specialised clinical services, as well as building local multidisciplinary research and NHS team with impact. I wish him well in this very important role.
"I would particularly like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank Professor Linda Greensmith for her truly outstanding contribution to the Institute of Neurology and in leading this Department from its inception in 2018. Linda has not only spearheaded a very successful internationally recognised motor neuron disease research programme, but she has supported colleagues across the Department to be highly successful in their research programs and education. She established the UCL Queen Square Centre for Motor Neuron Disease and has been instrumental in supporting early career researchers and PhD students including mentoring.
Thanks to Linda‘s leadership the Department is extremely successful in all metrics and currently holds ~£80m in active research grants. She has created a positive and supportive environment. Linda has also been pivotal to the inception and delivery of the Grays Inn Road new building and I am very pleased that she will continue to work with me as part of the strategic delivery group of the new building. I want to sincerely thank Linda for all of her work and contributions”.
Rob Pitceathly (Professor of Clinical Neurology and Mitochondrial Medicine, Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology) said “It’s a privilege and an honour to take on this responsibility from such a great role model as Linda Greensmith. I’m looking forward to supporting the success of all colleagues and students in the department.”
Professor Linda Greensmith (Professor of Neuroscience, Department of Neuromuscular Diseases, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology) said “I am delighted to hand over the reins to Rob as the new HoRD for DNMD, and wish him every success in his new role.
I would like to thank all of our fantastic researchers for making the department such a success and a pleasure to lead. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank our outstanding team of administrators, in particular Kully and Debbie, as well as Gipi Schiavo my Deputy HoRD, whose hard work and support has been invaluable.”