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The award, presented by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) as part of its 20th anniversary celebrations, recognises individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to health and care research across the UK.

Professor Greenwood is Professor of Clinical Psychology at the University of Sussex, Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Clinical Research Fellow at Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, and Mental Health Innovation and Implementation Lead for the NIHR Applied Research Collaboration Kent, Surrey and Sussex (ARC KSS).

The prize recognises her exceptional leadership in translating research evidence into improvements in mental health care. Notably, Professor Greenwood's NIHR-funded Early Youth Engagement (EYE) programme has been adopted nationally, influencing care pathways across England and supporting more than 9,000 young people experiencing first-episode psychosis.

Alongside her research leadership, Professor Greenwood has made a significant contribution to developing the next generation of mental health researchers and practitioners. Her work has included supervising MSc and PhD students, mentoring clinical professionals and supporting postdoctoral researchers. She also leads a public seminar programme with over 500 members that has disseminated mental health research and engaged members of the public, service users, carers and clinicians in discussions about mental health research and practice.

Reflecting on the award, Professor Greenwood said:

"This award is a wonderful recognition of the work we have undertaken, both regionally and nationally, to improve services and experiences for people living with psychosis. Importantly, it also serves as an invitation and opportunity to build on this success.

We have ambitious plans for future research to support the mental health of young people and adults during key life transitions, as well as those living with physical health conditions, neurodiversity and other co-occurring needs. This work will be developed in close collaboration with the Sussex Mental Health Research (SuMHeR) Centre, the Applied Research Collaboration Kent, Surrey and Sussex, and Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust."

Professor Luc Moreau, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine, said: "Kathryn's leadership has transformed how psychosis care is delivered nationally, and this award is a fitting recognition of that impact. Kathryn’s work truly embodies Sussex 2035’s theme of human flourishing and exemplifies how research can translate into positive community outcomes. On behalf of the Faculty and the whole University, I offer my warm congratulations to Kathryn.”