A physiotherapist at the James Paget University Hospital has been recognised with a prestigious national research leadership prize.
Rene Gray, who is the Professional Lead for Physiotherapy at the hospital, has been named as one of 20 NIHR Rising Research Leaders who are making an outstanding contribution to health and care research.
The prizes, which mark the 20th anniversary of the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), celebrate talented leaders who are making an exceptional contribution to health and care research across the UK, improving outcomes for patients, tackling inequalities and driving economic growth across the country.
Rene was recognised for his leadership of NIHR portfolio studies, local fellowship programmes, and regional partnerships, and for strengthening research culture and confidence among healthcare staff across the trust and wider integrated care system.
In addition, the judging panel noted that his work had influenced national best practice, including contributions adopted by the National Hip Fracture Database after he oversaw a successful project to improve the early mobilisation of patients after hip fracture surgery.
As a prize winner, Rene will receive a £10,000 professional development award alongside access to tailored leadership and development opportunities.
Rene said: “I am absolutely delighted to have been named as one of the 20 Rising Research Leaders by NIHR.
“The professional development award will allow me to continue my research into ways of improving mobilisation of our patients, which is so important in aiding in recovery and helping them leave hospital to get back home.”
James Frith, Health Innovation Minister, said:
“Patients benefit most when our world-leading research delivers the latest innovations to those who need them, when they need them. That’s why we’re recognising 40 research leaders across England for their life-changing work transforming the care patients receive. This is our 10-Year Health Plan in action, bringing together the brilliance of British science with the power of our NHS.”
The award reflects NIHR's commitment to supporting talented leaders across the full breadth of health and care research careers, improving outcomes for patients, tackling inequalities and driving economic growth across the country.
A formal prize-giving ceremony will take place at the 2026 NIHR Academy Conference in October.
Find out more about the NIHR20 Research Leaders Prizes