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Knowledge boost for research into ageing – University of Reading

As Britain's population gets older, research into ageing is becoming increasingly important. The University of Reading has now taken significant steps towards becoming a leading centre of excellence for research into this crucial issue by appointing leading academics in the field of gerontology. Professor Christina Victor will take up the post of Professor of Gerontology and Health Services Research in the School of Health and Social Care in March 2004. She is currently Professor of Social Gerontology at St George's Hospital Medical School and her move is prompted by the opportunities available at Reading to develop cross-disciplinary approaches to research into ageing and health services. Other new appointments include Dr Margot Gosney, who joined the University as Professor of Elderly Care Medicine in August 2003, a joint appointment with the Royal Berkshire and Battle Hospital Trust. Dr David Oliver, Consultant Physician and Director of Elderly Medicine at Queen Mary's Hospital, Sidcup, joins the University on a similar basis as Senior Lecturer in Elderly Care Medicine in February 2004. The social work section of the School of Health and Social Care has also made a new appointment. Dr Sally Richards, a lecturer in social work with older people, moved from Southampton University in January 2004. Mr Douglas Badger, Head of the School of Health and Social Care, said: "It gives me great pleasure to welcome these new additions to our staff. They can only help broaden the considerable research going on at Reading into ageing." The University already has a number of active researchers in the field of gerontology. These are currently brought together under AGEnet, which is run by Professor Peter Lansley, of the School of Construction Management. But this network of researchers – who come from diverse Schools such as Animal and Microbial Sciences, Food Biosciences, Law and Psychology – has been given an extra boost by the recent establishment of a Joint College of Healthcare Studies, headed up by Professor Dianne Berry, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research. "This exciting new development means that researchers across the disciplines can interact and share knowledge as never before," said Mr Badger. end Notes for editors About the School of Health and Social Care -The recently formed School of Health and Social Care has an established reputation for providing high quality education. Evidence of this was demonstrated in the 2000 Teaching Quality Assessment when the health and nursing team was awarded the maximum score of 24, representing excellence in all assessed areas. Research is perceived as a priority and evolving partnerships with local health care trusts, social services departments, schools and colleges will guarantee growth and development. Its research group focusses on health care and social care research. For any media enquiries, please contact Craig Hillsley, Press Officer, University of Reading. Tel: 0118 378 7388 E-mail: c.hillsley@reading.ac.uk