A leading Clinical Scientist at NIHR Biomedical Research Centre (BRC): Leeds has been promoted to professor in recognition of her internationally-renowned work tackling antimicrobial resistance (AMR), one of the world’s most significant public health challenges.
Jane Freeman, who is co-deputy theme lead for antimicrobial resistance and infection at the BRC, received the honour in recognition of her outstanding contribution to research, innovation and patient care.
A senior academic and researcher at the University of Leeds, Professor Freeman has worked with the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) for more than five years and has played a leading role in generating the evidence and innovations needed to keep treatments effective and protect patients from drug-resistant infections.
Her research has had a direct impact on patient care, particularly through advances in the diagnosis and management of Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile) infection. She has also been at the forefront of diagnostic innovation, helping clinicians identify infections more quickly and accurately while supporting better use of antibiotics across healthcare settings.
Alongside her research achievements, Professor Freeman has received a number of prestigious accolades, including an honorary fellowship from the Academy for Healthcare Science, represented senior female healthcare leaders at the Lady Mayor’s Parade and has championed equality and career development through her work with Empower Leeds Women.
Professor Freeman previously served as national clinical lead for AMR diagnostics at NHS England, where she helped deliver the UK’s national action plan for antimicrobial resistance. In this role, she supported efforts to strengthen diagnostic capabilities and improve antimicrobial stewardship across the health system, helping ensure antibiotics remain effective for future generations.
In her role at NIHR Biomedical Research Centre: Leeds, Professor Freeman helps lead research focused on reducing infections, improving diagnostics, protecting existing antibiotics and developing new treatments to combat antimicrobial resistance.
Promotion to professor is one of the highest academic distinctions within a university. It recognises sustained excellence and leadership in research, education and wider impact, as well as a significant contribution to advancing knowledge within a field.
Professor Jane Freeman said: “I am absolutely delighted to have been promoted to Professor of AMR and Infection. It is especially meaningful to be a healthcare scientist in this position, and I hope will encourage others in their efforts to progress as clinical academic healthcare professionals.
“Of course, in reality this has only come about because of the support of a wonderful team of colleagues at the Healthcare Associated Infections Research Group. I am particularly indebted to Prof Mark Wilcox OBE and Dr Kerrie Davies MBE for their constant support, encouragement and friendship, and our talented team of researchers, technicians, students and support staff.
“I am also grateful for the leadership and development opportunities that have come my way at NIHR Biomedical Research Centre: Leeds. These have underpinned my progress from university academic fellow to associate professor and now professor within the lifetime of the award. I think it is a demonstration of the vibrant and supportive research development culture at the BRC and the University of Leeds for clinical academic healthcare professionals.”
For Professor Freeman, this promotion reflects the international influence of her work, the benefits it has delivered for patients and healthcare services, and her leadership in the global effort to tackle antimicrobial resistance.
Through her research, innovation and advocacy, Professor Freeman aims to continue making an important contribution to improving patient outcomes and strengthening the UK’s response to one of the most pressing healthcare challenges of our time.