We are thrilled to welcome Dr Jill Madine as the new Chair of the Research Advisory Group (RAG) at The Aortic Dissection Charitable Trust. With a background in biochemistry and a passion for aortic disease research, Jill’s leadership marks an exciting chapter for our research initiatives. A Senior Lecturer in Biochemistry at the University of Liverpool, Jill is also a founding member of the Liverpool Aortic Biomechanics and Biochemistry Research Group (LABB), where she has dedicated over a decade to studying the complexities of aortic disease.
Jill’s research contributions have been vast, ranging from advancing the understanding of aortic diseases at a molecular level to investigating innovative diagnostic and treatment methods. Her work has been instrumental in pushing the boundaries of what we know about aortic conditions, focusing on how early interventions and precise diagnostics can improve survival and quality of life. Her keen understanding of the challenges in aortic research will be invaluable to the RAG as we continue to foster studies that make meaningful strides in patient care.
Jill is also deeply committed to encouraging diverse research proposals and nurturing ideas that could lead to breakthrough treatments. As Chair of the RAG, she aims to provide early-stage researchers with support, creating a collaborative environment where promising ideas can flourish. By helping researchers develop robust, impactful proposals, Jill will be central to our mission to advance knowledge and treatment options for aortic dissection and related diseases.
Thanking Professor Colin Bicknell for His Dedication
We would also like to express our deep appreciation for Professor Colin Bicknell, who has been instrumental in shaping the Trust’s research strategy from its inception, including becoming a member of the Association of Medical Research Charities. Colin’s leadership has helped bring aortic dissection research into the national spotlight, increasing awareness and inspiring a more unified approach to tackling this life-threatening condition. Colin has played a critical role in establishing the RAG’s foundations, ensuring that the Trust’s research support aligns with the needs of both patients and the clinical community.
As a Consultant Vascular Surgeon at the Imperial Vascular Unit in London, Colin brings exceptional expertise to our organisation. His dedication to improving patient outcomes extends beyond the UK; his influence is felt globally through his work on international committees and research groups. Though he is stepping down as Chair, we are pleased that Colin will continue working closely with us on pivotal projects, such as EARNEST: Early Aortic Repair in Type B Aortic Dissection, and as a driving force behind ongoing research. His experience and vision will remain integral to our efforts to foster life-saving advancements in aortic dissection care.
The Role of the Research Advisory Group
The RAG, under Jill’s new leadership, continues to be a cornerstone of our approach to supporting aortic dissection research. Composed of experts across various disciplines, the RAG brings together a diverse range of perspectives, lived experience and skills, which is essential in tackling the multifaceted challenges presented by aortic diseases. This team reviews research proposals rigorously, ensuring that our funding is allocated to projects with the highest potential for impact.
One of the RAG’s core objectives is to encourage early-stage research, recognising that some of the most innovative ideas come from initial explorations. By engaging with researchers at an early stage, the RAG aims to support promising ideas through initial feedback and guidance, helping researchers refine their proposals and enhance their potential impact. This commitment to nurturing new ideas reflects our belief in the importance of laying strong foundations for research that can save lives and advance patient care.
Continuing Our Commitment to Groundbreaking Research
The charity is committed to being a driving force in aortic dissection research, supporting projects that strive to improve patient outcomes, refine treatment pathways, and develop more accurate diagnostic tools. With Jill’s expertise and Colin’s continued involvement, we look forward to fostering studies that will address the many challenges posed by aortic disease. Through the dedication of our Research Advisory Group and the wider research community, we remain steadfast in our mission to improve survival rates and quality of life for people with aortic dissection.
We invite researchers, clinicians, patients and anyone with an interest in aortic disease to connect with us, join our research panel, and stay informed about the latest developments. By building a strong, interconnected community of researchers and practitioners, we aim to make meaningful advances in understanding and treating aortic dissection for the benefit of patients today and in the future.