The NIHR Mental Health Translational Research Collaboration (MH-TRC) has announced a series of senior leadership appointments to support the next phase of its work to translate mental health research into better care and outcomes for patients.
Professor Jeremy Hall has been appointed Chair, succeeding Professor Rachel Upthegrove, MBE, who will move into the role of Emeritus Chair.
A longstanding member of the MH-TRC leadership team, and a leading psychiatrist, Professor Hall brings extensive experience in translational mental health research and a strong commitment to collaboration across academia, the NHS, industry and lived experience communities.
As Chair, he will lead the MH-TRC’s strategic direction and support the development of new treatments and interventions for a range of mental health conditions including depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis and children’s mental health.
Professor Matthew Broome, Chair in Psychiatry and Youth Mental Health at the University of Birmingham and Director of the Institute for Mental Health, has been appointed Deputy Chair. Professor Broome also leads the MH-TRC Mental Health Mission Midlands Translational Centre, helping bring together researchers, clinicians, those with lived experience and partners to accelerate impactful mental health research. Professor Broome works clinically in the East Birmingham Early Intervention in Psychosis, part of Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust.
The MH-TRC wishes to thank Professor Rachel Upthegrove, MBE for her leadership as Chair. During her tenure, she helped raise the collaboration’s national profile, strengthen partnerships and build a strong foundation for future growth. As Emeritus Chair, she will continue to provide strategic advice and support.
The collaboration also recognises the outstanding contribution of Professor John Geddes, who is stepping down from his formal leadership role. Professor Geddes helped establish the MH-TRC and later served as Chair and Emeritus Chair. His vision and leadership have played a significant role in shaping the collaboration and its impact on mental health research across the UK.
Together, these appointments mark a new chapter for the MH-TRC as it continues to drive innovation, strengthen collaboration and improve mental health outcomes through world-leading translational research.
Professor Jeremy Hall said:
“I am honoured to take on the role of Chair and to build on the remarkable foundations established by Rachel Upthegrove and John Geddes.
“The MH-TRC has become a highly effective national collaboration, bringing together the expertise needed to accelerate progress in mental health research.
“I look forward to working with colleagues across the network to support innovation, strengthen partnerships and ultimately improve outcomes for people living with mental health conditions.”
Professor Matthew Broome said:
“As a psychiatrist, I see every week how much we still need better treatments for people with serious mental illness, and how often young people wait too long for effective help.
“The MH-TRC is a key element in how the UK turns its research strength into real improvements in care. I’m honoured to join Jeremy and Rachel in leading it, and to make sure that change reaches communities across the whole country.”
Professor Rachel Upthegrove said:
“It has been a privilege to help guide the MH-TRC during a period of growth and ambition.
“What has always stood out is the commitment of colleagues, partners and public contributors across the network to improving the lives of people affected by mental illness. I am delighted to continue supporting the collaboration as Emeritus Chair and look forward to seeing the next chapter unfold.”
