On 31 October and 1 November, the NIHR Leeds Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) held its annual away day, bringing together researchers, clinicians, and leaders to strengthen the vision and goals of the Centre.
The event, held at a local venue, began with a series of key insights from national and local leaders in Leeds and beyond.
The first day’s agenda was highlighted by a visit from Professor Marian Knight, MBE, the Scientific Director for NIHR Infrastructure. Professor Knight’s address provided attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the NIHR’s vision for its infrastructure, highlighting the importance of being responsive, cohesive, and strategically aligned to enhance research outcomes across the translational pathway. This vision was echoed by Dr Magnus Harrison, Chief Medical Officer at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, and Professor Phil Conaghan, Director of the NIHR Leeds BRC, who jointly welcomed attendees and emphasised the impact of local research on the Leeds community and the broader region.
In her presentation, Professor Knight shared her perspective on how NIHR Infrastructure must be “greater than the sum of its parts” through collaborative efforts that push research towards real-world impact. Recognizing Leeds’ success in integrating cross-cutting initiatives like patient and public involvement and engagement (PPIEP) and academic capacity development, she praised the Centre for its strong internal cohesion and innovative partnerships.
A major theme of Professor Knight’s address was impact. She encouraged researchers to go beyond traditional academic achievements and focus on articulating how their work improves health outcomes, transforms care pathways, and contributes to the well-being of the UK population. “Impact is not about a peer-reviewed publication,” she noted, “but about how research changes lives.” Professor Knight also emphasised that inclusivity is essential, urging researchers to ensure that study populations reflect the diversity of those affected by the conditions under investigation.
She concluded with practical guidance for the Leeds BRC, stressing that researchers should:
- Clearly define the pathway to impact for all projects from the outset.
- Be prepared to explain the “so what” of their research, demonstrating why it matters for NIHR’s goals.
- Focus on strategic needs, seeing publications as a step, not the end, in the research journey.
- Collaborate across all elements of NIHR infrastructure to prevent promising research from “falling through the gaps.”
On the second day, BRC members conducted a comprehensive SWOT analysis of each research theme, evaluating strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Discussions then turned to how the Centre could optimise its current activities to maximize impact, fostering a collaborative atmosphere for identifying areas for improvement.
The away day culminated with forward-looking sessions that challenged attendees to imagine the future of the Leeds BRC. This included exploring potential changes to the Centre’s thematic structure to ensure it remains aligned with NIHR’s evolving priorities. These discussions, infused with Professor Knight’s vision for responsive and cohesive NIHR Infrastructure, have provided the Leeds BRC with valuable insights as it plans for the years ahead.
The event was a powerful reminder of the shared commitment within the Leeds BRC to advancing biomedical research that truly makes a difference. Inspired by national leadership and driven by local dedication, the Leeds team is well-prepared to continue leading impactful, inclusive, and innovative research for the health and well-being of all.