Newcastle's top neuromuscular scientist wins prestigious European award

A leading scientist from Newcastle University has won a prestigious award for her pioneering work on neuromuscular diseases.

Professor Kate Bushby received the 2015 EURORDIS Scientific Award for her research into rare inherited genetic conditions.

I am delighted to have received this award: a real sign of recognition that the John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre is a world leader in the field of rare diseases, said Prof. Bushby, and honorary consultant geneticist at Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, who is based at the Centre for Life.

The award is also a real accolade for the work of all our many partners in Europe and worldwide and an indication that collaboration is essential for advancing research in rare diseases.

Genetic neuromuscular diseases are disorders that affect nerves which control the bodys voluntary movements, and a number of such conditions are extremely rare.

Newcastles research centre is at the forefront of work on the conditions, with its team collaborating with experts and patient organisations from around the globe to help improve diagnosis, care and treatment for patients.

Nominations for the EURORDIS Scientific Award came from the public, with members of the rare disease community and beyond then having their say on who should get the top accolade.

Professor Bushbys gong also recognised the role she has played in the NHSs Highly Specialised Services for rare neuromuscular diseases, as well as her place on the EU Committee of Experts of Rare Disease.

Dr Marita Pohlschmidt, director of research at Muscular Dystrophy UK, said: Professor Bushby is an outstanding scientist, and clinician, who has made the John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre an internationally renowned centre of excellence for neuromuscular research and standards of care.

We are extremely proud to have worked with Professor Bushby for many years. She started her career as a clinical fellow funded by Muscular Dystrophy UK and has since been a longstanding grantee of the charity.

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Newcastle's top neuromuscular scientist wins prestigious European award