This award recognises Professor Thakar’s sustained achievements in leadership and world-leading work in leading the fight against kidney disease by educating health professionals, sharing new knowledge, advancing research, and advocating the highest quality of care for patients. 

Professor Thakar is the Director of the Wellcome-Wolfson Institute for Experimental Medicine (WWIEM) at Queen’s University Belfast. He is a globally established leader within the discipline of nephrology and has over two decades of leadership experience working in academic, healthcare and higher education institutions in the USA and UK.  

Professor Thakar’s research examines risk factors and outcomes in patients suffering from acute kidney injury across various medical and surgical settings. His body of work has helped inform decision-making in both patients and clinicians alike and has paved the way for the development of novel approaches in prevention and treatment of kidney disorders. 

Welcoming the award, Professor Charuhas V. Thakar, said: “I am delighted for this recognition and thankful to my peers and committee members for considering me for this award. One of the most rewarding things of this leadership journey over the past two decades has been the ability to influence the career development of so many healthcare professionals and scientists. I hope that this will positively impact not only those professionals but ultimately the patients we all get to serve. I look forward to the prospect of the next chapter at Queen’s University Belfast.”  

He added: “This leadership journey could not have been possible without the invaluable support of my family and friends.”  

Professor Thakar will officially receive this award at the American Society of Nephrology national meeting in San Diego on 27 October 2024. The Society represents over 20,000 kidney health professionals across the globe. 

Commenting on this recognition, the American Society of Nephrology President, Dr Diedra Crews said: “Nephrology represents the very best in medicine and science. Each year, the American Society of Nephrology recognises individuals who demonstrated exceptional leadership and achievements in patient care, research, and education through our Lifetime Achievement and Midcareer Awards.  

“Above all, kidney professionals imbue their work with compassion, dedication, and respect for the people whose lives they improve. Their achievements are reflected in the themes that shape this year’s annual meeting—leadership, innovation, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to doing what is best for people living with kidney diseases and advancing kidney health.”