Nephrology
Welcome to Sheffield Kidney Research (SKR)
Kidney Research in Sheffield dates back to the 1960s with Dr Margaret Platts as the first Reader in Nephrology in 1965 and Mr John Williams (Consultant Urologist) who performed the first kidney transplant in 1968. This was followed in the 1970s by a range of clinical research activities and innovations in the field of glomerulonephritis, renal osteodystrophy, dialysis adequacy and CAPD. This led eventually to the establishment of the Academic Nephrology Unit at the University of Sheffield Medical School and the founding of the Sheffield Kidney Institute at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals in 1990 as a focus for the research and educational aspirations for Sheffield nephrology.
The last 30 years have seen a considerable expansion of laboratory based research with emphasis on the molecular mechanisms underlying progressive chronic kidney disease (CKD) and the genetic basis of polycystic kidney disease (PKD). The educational aspirations of nephrology were channelled into a highly successful MMedSci course (1995-2011) established by Prof Meguid El-Nahas and recognised by the International Society of Nephrology through the 2009 Robert Schrier Award. In addition, over 25 ISN fellows were trained in Sheffield and over 40 post-graduate students have received their PhDs/MDs from the University of Sheffield.
The research achievements of nephrology have been recognised through the award of Academic Directorate status by Sheffield Teaching Hospitals. With new appointments, nephrology research has also broadened into several new areas. Current active research areas include the genetics of kidney disease, polycystic kidney disease, renal development, cell signalling, renal imaging, patient decision pathways, renal bone disease and renal epidemiology. Sheffield Kidney Research conducts the highest quality research in basic science, seeks to translate knowledge to develop novel treatments and ultimately to improve outcomes for kidney patients and their families.
For general enquiries regarding research or educational opportunities in nephrology, please contact Professor Albert Ong, Professor of Renal Medicine.