After an extraordinary career spanning almost 40 years of research in Bradford, Professor Anne Forster is retiring, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that has transformed ageing and stroke research and improved the lives of patients and families across the UK.
Anne joined Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in 1987 and, alongside Professor John Young, established the Academic Unit for Ageing and Stroke Research (ASR). What began as a team of two has grown into one of the UK’s leading research units in ageing and stroke, now including more than 40 researchers.
A physiotherapist by background, Anne has devoted her career to improving outcomes for people affected by stroke and other age-related conditions. Her research has led major studies evaluating interventions including carer support, information provision and reducing sedentary behaviour helping to shape stroke rehabilitation nationally and internationally.
Chief Executive of Bradford Teaching Hospitals, Professor Mel Pickup, praised Anne for being a pioneer in her field.
We are truly grateful for the legacy of research excellence, leadership and mentorship that Anne leaves behind after an extraordinary career. Her impact will continue through the colleagues, researchers and patients whose lives she has influenced.
Anne was head of the ASR from 2015 to 2023. She also held senior leadership roles at the University of Leeds, including director of research and deputy director at the Leeds Institute of Health Sciences. In 2017, Anne was recognised as an NIHR senior investigator, one of the highest honours awarded to leaders in patient and people-based health research.
Professor Anne Forster said:
It has been a privilege to work alongside so many dedicated colleagues over the past 39 years. I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together, from building the Academic Unit into a nationally recognised centre of excellence to conducting research that has made a real difference to patients and their families.
I want to thank all the patients, carers and clinicians who have worked with us over the years, and I look forward to seeing the unit continue to thrive in the years ahead.
Andrew Clegg, Head of the ASR said:
Anne has played a pivotal role in establishing the unit as one of the UK’s leading centres for ageing and stroke research. The strong foundations she has created, together with the talented team she has developed, mean the unit is well placed to continue delivering world-leading research that improves the lives of patients.