The Faculty of Health and Life Sciences is pleased to announce the appointment of Professor Shakila Thangaratinam, a leading clinical researcher in maternal and reproductive health, to two key leadership roles.
Starting this month as Professor of Women’s Health at the University and an honorary consultant at Liverpool Women’s Hospital, Professor Thangaratinam will assume the roles of Deputy Dean for the Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences and University Lead for the India Portfolio. In this capacity, she will work closely with the Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Global Engagement and Partnerships to strengthen ties between Liverpool and India and support the University’s strategic international ambitions.
Professor Thangaratinam, an NIHR Senior Investigator and recently elected Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences, brings extensive leadership experience spanning Higher Education and the NHS. She joins Liverpool from the University of Birmingham, where she led the Maternal and Reproductive Health Theme, co-directed the WHO Collaborating Centre for Global Women’s Health, and served as the academic lead for Women’s Health in Birmingham Health Partners.
Her world-leading research focuses on preventing stillbirths, neonatal deaths, and pregnancy complications in high-risk women, supported by major grants from the MRC, NIHR, and WHO. Her expertise also includes capacity building, teaching and mentoring, industry engagement, and outreach.
Professor Thangaratinam said: “I am thrilled to join the University of Liverpool and contribute to its outstanding academic environment. I look forward to working with colleagues and students within the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences and the broader University to help achieve our ambitions for global leadership in research and education. I am eager to build and strengthen partnerships with NHS Trusts, policymakers, industry partners, and international institutions. My commitment to capacity building and patient and public involvement has always been central to my work, and I am excited to continue this at Liverpool.”
Professor Louise Kenny added: “I am delighted to welcome Professor Thangaratinam to our Faculty and University. Her outstanding expertise in maternal and reproductive health, along with her extensive research and leadership experience, will greatly enhance our efforts in these areas. We look forward to her contributions in strengthening our global partnerships and supporting our strategic vision."