NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre appoints first-ever Deputy Directors 

Professor Patricia Lalor and Professor Alex Richter, from the University of Birmingham, have been appointed as Deputy Directors of the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre (BRC). This double appointment aims to further strengthen the BRC’s leadership team to deliver world-class translational research that improves patient care. 

Professors Lalor and Richter will work closely with Professor Andrew Filer, who was recently appointed as Director of the BRC, to drive the Centre’s ambitious vision and strategic priorities. 

About the new Deputy Directors 

• Professor Patricia Lalor 

Patricia (Trish) Lalor is Professor of Experimental Hepatology at the University of Birmingham, internationally recognised for her research on the molecular mechanisms underpinning human liver diseases. She also brings extensive expertise in academic career development and capacity building, supporting the next generation of clinical and translational researchers. 

• Professor Alex Richter  

As Professor and Honorary Consultant in Clinical Immunology at the University of Birmingham, Alex Richter brings a wealth of expertise in translational immunology and diagnostics, with a strong track record of clinical research that impacts patient outcomes. Alex drives cross-sector collaboration, integrating academia, healthcare, and industry to accelerate innovation. 

Professor Andrew Filer welcomed the appointments, saying: 
“This is an exciting moment for the Birmingham BRC. Trish and Alex bring exceptional expertise and leadership that will help us deliver on our mission to translate cutting-edge research into real-world benefits for patients. Their appointment reflects our commitment to building a strong, collaborative leadership team.” 

Professor Patricia Lalor said: 
“It’s an honour to take on this role and continue supporting the development of research careers and translational research excellence across the BRC. Collaboration is at the heart of what we do, and I look forward to working with colleagues to achieve our shared goals.” 

Professor Alex Richter added: 
“It’s a privilege to help lead the BRC at such an exciting time. I am passionate about ensuring our research translates into tangible benefits for patients and communities, and I look forward to strengthening partnerships across Birmingham and beyond.” 

Dr Vicki Day, Head of Infrastructure for the BRC, commented: 
“Introducing Deputy Directors for the first time is a significant step forward. It ensures resilience in our leadership structure and enables us to better support researchers, clinicians, and public contributors across the Centre.” 

Public contributors Kanta and Sadia, who served on the interview panel for these positions, said: 
“It was inspiring to see the commitment of all candidates to patient involvement and research impact. Patricia and Alex stood out for their vision and dedication to making research meaningful for the people it serves.”