Baroness Nicola Blackwood joins Oxford-Harrington Rare Disease Centre Advisory Council
- Baroness Nicola Blackwood has been appointed to the Advisory Council of the Oxford-Harrington Rare Disease Centre.
- She brings extensive experience in healthcare policy and innovation, including her role in the 100,000 Genomes Project.
- Her appointment is expected to enhance the Centre's mission to drive breakthroughs in rare disease treatment.
On September 11, 2024, the Oxford-Harrington Rare Disease Centre announced the appointment of Baroness Nicola Blackwood to its Advisory Council. This partnership between the University of Oxford and the Harrington Discovery Institute aims to advance research and innovation in rare diseases. Baroness Blackwood, who has a personal connection to rare diseases through her diagnosis of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, brings a wealth of experience in healthcare policy, having previously served as a Minister in the UK Government's Department for Health and Social Care. Her leadership roles include chairing Genomics England and Oxford University Innovation, where she has been instrumental in initiatives like the 100,000 Genomes Project. This project has significantly impacted the lives of individuals with rare diseases by enhancing diagnosis and treatment options. The Advisory Council's mission is to address critical unmet needs in the UK, focusing on transforming scientific advancements into effective therapies. Professor Sir John Bell, who chairs the Advisory Council, expressed enthusiasm for Blackwood's appointment, highlighting her dedication to medical innovation. The collaboration aims to leverage cutting-edge research to improve healthcare outcomes for patients suffering from rare diseases, which affect over 400 million people globally, with many being children. Baroness Blackwood's unique perspective, shaped by her professional and personal experiences, is expected to drive the Centre's mission forward, ultimately striving to make life-changing discoveries in the field of rare diseases.