A professor who has changed the lives of kidney patients across the world has won a rare and distinguished award.
Prof Sunil Bhandari, a consultant nephrologist and transplant physician, has been awarded the William Cullen Medal for his contribution to his field in the UK and internationally.
The William Cullen Medal is awarded to a fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh (RCPE) for “the greatest benefit done to practical medicine”.
Bhandari, who works at Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust and Hull York Medical School, described receiving the accolade as a “tremendous privilege and honour”.
Over the past 26 years, Bhandari has worked as a physician, clinical researcher and teacher in East Yorkshire.
He co-authored the landmark PIVOTAL trial, external, which helped reduce the risk of death, hospitalisation for heart failure, and major cardiac issues in patients on dialysis suffering from anaemia.
He was also the chief investigator of the NIHR STOP-ACEi trial,, external a study aimed at improving kidney function in those with stage four or five chronic kidney disease.
Bhandari said: “Throughout my career, I have been continually inspired by the generosity, commitment and shared purpose of those around me.
“This award reflects what can be achieved when we work together to advance knowledge, improve care and invest in the next generation.
“I remain committed to continuing that contribution and helping shape the future of kidney medicine and medical education.”