10th NHS Grampian Research Conference set to break boundaries and inspire fresh innovation
Published: 24/06/2025 09:35The 10th annual NHS Grampian Research Conference is set to break boundaries this week by challenging conventional research approaches and fostering diverse collaboration.
The event – taking place on Friday 27 and Saturday 28 June – will bring together leading minds in healthcare, technology, and interdisciplinary research at P&J Live, Aberdeen.
Under the theme of ‘Breaking Traditional Disciplinary Boundaries’, the conference will incorporate NHS Research Scotland (NRS) Reproductive Health & Childbirth, The University of Aberdeen’s Interdisciplinary Institute, and Rowett Institute Events.
Professor Abha Maheshwari, NRS Champion for Reproductive Health and Childbirth, said: “Ten years on from the first NHS Grampian Research Conference, the era of working in silos is over.
“Healthcare research currently takes too long to benefit patients. To advance research and drive meaningful change, we must collaborate across disciplines and methodologies.
“This exciting conference will bring together experts from different backgrounds, encouraging all to collaborate, share vital learnings for mutual benefit, and ultimately break down barriers.”
In addition to 40 speakers representing 20 different organisations across Scotland and the rest of UK, the conference offers a great networking opportunity for patients and public involvement representatives to meet with those involved in research and health service delivery.
Professor Lesley Anderson, Interdisciplinary Institute Director – Health, Nutrition and Wellbeing, from the University of Aberdeen said: "We are proud to support the 10th NHS Grampian Research Conference in its mission to break traditional disciplinary boundaries. Through collaboration across healthcare, technology, and interdisciplinary research, we can drive meaningful innovation that directly benefits patients and communities now and in the future.”
“Our Interdisciplinary Institute exemplifies this approach, bringing together expertise in areas such as energy transition, social inclusion and cultural diversity, data and AI, environment and biodiversity, and health, nutrition and wellbeing. By working across sectors including policy, industry, and the third sector we aim to develop solutions that have a lasting impact on society."
Among a diverse programme, keynote speakers will include Lord Provost of Aberdeen, Dr David Cameron; President of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow, Professor Hany Eteiba; Chair of NHS Grampian Board, Alison Evison; Chief Officer of Public Health Scotland, Manira Ahmed; and the Head of Chief Scientist Office, Euan Dick.
Professor Hany Eteiba, said: “Interdisciplinary collaboration plays a critical role in enhancing patient care, driving innovation and developing leading-edge solutions to shape the future of healthcare.”
Speaking of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow, he added: “As the UK’s only multidisciplinary medical royal college, we’ve seen first-hand the positive impact of collaboration to make advances in areas including AI, digital transformation and environmental sustainability. I’m very much looking forward to meeting doctors, researchers and healthcare professionals at this important and exciting event.”
Highlights of the event programme are set to include:
- Lightning Round: NHS Grampian Charity Research Grant winners present rapid-fire insights into cutting-edge medical research
- Innovations in Healthcare: Explore the impact of AI, healthcare logistics drones, and digital transformation
- Enabling Health & Social Care Research: From dementia care strategies to AI-driven health policies, the latest advancements will be unveiled
- Reproductive Health & Childbirth Event: Experts examine maternal health, sexual health services, and interdisciplinary collaboration in gynaecology
- Addressing Nutritional Inequalities: Led by the Rowett Institute, tackling food security and policy change for a healthier future
The conference will also offer a dedicated session on NHS Grampian’s recent selection as one of 21 commercial research delivery centres across the UK set up with £100 million funding over four years. This will include a focus on research inclusion, patient and public involvement and engagement (PPI), as well as equity of access to those living in remote and rural areas.
A Civic Reception and Conference Dinner will be hosted at the P&J Live on Friday 27 from 6.30pm, bringing together delegates, speakers, and innovators to celebrate research excellence.
The event is co-supported by P&J Live and The University of Aberdeen and will set the stage for next year’s conference, taking place at – and co-sponsored by – Robert Gordon University in May.
Contact the 2025 Grampian Conference team for further information and follow #GramConf25