Jenny Donovan, Professor of Social Medicine in the University’s School of Social and Community Medicine, has been awarded the royal accolade to acknowledge her outstanding contributions to health research and advancement of medical science.

Professor Donovan has worked at the University of Bristol since 1990.  From 2005 to 2010 she was Head of the Department of Social Medicine and then Head of the School of Social and Community Medicine until September 2012.  She is an National Institute for Health Research [NIHR] Senior Investigator, Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences (FMedSci), Academician of the Academy of Social Sciences (AcSS) and Fellow of the Faculty of Public Health.

She is principal investigator of research grants valued at over £45 million, including the NIHR HTA Programme-funded ProtecT randomised controlled trial - now the largest study in the world evaluating treatments for localised prostate cancer – and is involved in a wide range of other projects using molecular, clinical and social science approaches, as well as leading innovative qualitative research in randomised controlled trials.  She has also been instrumental in developing the population health based strategy for Bristol Health Partners.

Professor Donovan: “I am delighted with this award but I would not have received it without the support and success of colleagues in the School of Social and Community Medicine. 

“While the award has been given to me, I see it as a clear recognition of the energy, collaborative working, and commitment of staff in the School.” 

The School in the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, is a leading centre for population health and recently received a silver Athena SWAN award.