CNGG Director appointed as Health and Care Research Wales ‘Senior Research Leader’
10 May 2025
Director of the Centre for Neuropsychiatric Genetics and Genomics, Professor James Walters has been appointed as a Health and Care Research Wales ‘Senior Research Leader’ in recognition of his outstanding contribution to health and care research.
Twelve Senior Research Leader roles were awarded to esteemed professors from Cardiff University, two of which were appointed from the Division of Psychological Medicine and Clinical Neurosciences, including Professor Walters and his peer, Professor William Gray.
These researchers have demonstrated not only their expertise in their respective fields but also their dedication to fostering collaboration and innovation within the Welsh research community. The Senior Research Leaders will take on leadership roles and serve as ambassadors for health and care research, helping to shape the future of healthcare practices and policies in Wales.
Gareth Cross, Deputy Director of Science, Research and Evidence at Welsh Government, praised the calibre of the researchers, saying, "The panel was very impressed with the upward trajectory of the Welsh research environment. The breadth of applications was outstanding. The expertise and dedication of the Senior Research Leaders will be instrumental in fostering innovation, collaboration, and excellence within our research community."
The Senior Research Leaders will continue to contribute to a variety of activities within the Health and Care Research Wales Faculty, including serving on funding panels, boards, and committees, and mentoring upcoming researchers.
“It’s a real honour to be appointed as a Senior Research Leader for Health and Care Research Wales. I look forward to working with Health and Care Research Wales, and the faculty to ensure we build capacity, career pathways and equitable funding for Welsh health research to benefit the people of Wales and beyond.”
To learn more about the Senior Research Leaders and their roles in shaping health and care research in Wales, visit the Health and Care Research Wales website.
