The University of Sheffield is delighted to announce that Dr Meena Balasubramanian has been awarded a Professorship in Medical Genetics, a significant achievement that reflects her outstanding contributions to clinical care, academic research, and the advancement of children's health.
Meena, Professor of Medical Genetics and Genomic Medicine and Clinical Director of Research at Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, has built an internationally respected career at the intersection of paediatrics, clinical genetics, and rare disease research. Her new professorial appointment honours years of commitment to transforming diagnostic pathways and improving outcomes for children and families affected by complex genetic conditions.
Reflecting on the origins of her journey, Professor Balasubramanian said: “I still remember the exact moment I decided to pursue clinical genetics,” Meena recalled. “It was during a night shift as a Junior Doctor. I reviewed a baby with multiple issues and thought it might be a genetic condition. That experience made me realise how much I enjoyed delving into rare conditions and trying to end the diagnostic odyssey many families face.”
Originally from Bengaluru, India, Meena trained in paediatrics in the UK before joining Sheffield Children’s in 2008 to specialise in clinical genetics. Since then, she has become a leading voice in her field, with a particular focus on rare bone disorders such as Osteogenesis Imperfecta. Her work bridges frontline clinical care and cutting-edge research, and she continues to mentor the next generation of clinical academics through initiatives like SCYPHeR (Sheffield Children's and Young People's Health Research).
“I feel like the journey has just started. My work has always been driven by the patients and families I care for, especially those with rare genetic disorders" Meena said, "I hope my professorship shows that even though research can be hard, it’s also deeply fulfilling. It allows us to do what we love while having a broader impact on patients and families. Through SCYPHeR and other initiatives at the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Children’s, I want to build the kind of infrastructure that helps others follow this path, a thriving research ecosystem that supports future clinical academics in child health.”
The University of Sheffield is proud to support and celebrate Professor Meena Balasubramanian’s achievements, and we look forward to the continued innovation and collaboration her work will inspire across medical genetics and child health research.