Congratulations to Dr Ali Abbara, winner of the 2026 Starling Early Career Medal for Research Excellence. We had the pleasure of catching up with Dr Abbara to learn more about his incredible work and the impact the Society has had on his professional journey.
Dr Ali Abbara graduated with honours from St Bartholomews’ and the Royal London medical school in 2004 and completed his PhD in Reproductive Neuroendocrinology at Imperial College London in 2014. He is now an Associate Professor at Imperial College London and Honorary Consultant at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust in Reproductive Endocrinology.
Lou obtained a BSc in Biology from the University of Manchester BSc in 1985. During her undergraduate studies she developed an interest in genetics which led her to undertake a postgraduate diploma in Human Genetics at the University of Aberdeen. After a brief period in industry, Professor Metherell returned to science and was awarded her PhD from the University of Greenwich in 1999. She joined the Centre for Endocrinology at William Harvey Research Institute, QMUL in 1998, where her research has focused on the genetics of endocrine disease, particularly disorders of adrenal insufficiency. Lou is currently a Professor of Endocrine Genetics and Head of Department for the Centre for Endocrinology, WHRI, Queen Mary University of London.
- What do you enjoy most about your work?
I am particularly enthused by improving care for patients with reproductive disorders and supporting the next generation of clinical academics in the field to reach their full potential.
- What are your biggest and/or most recent achievements?
We published an article in Nature Communications exploring how artificial intelligence (AI) can enhance in vitro fertilisation (IVF) treatment. Our work demonstrated that AI could help personalise treatment decisions and optimise clinical outcomes for patients struggling with infertility.
- What words of wisdom do you have for aspiring endocrinologists?
I'm not sure I have attained enough wisdom to start imparting any, but one thing I believe is crucial is to stay curious and open-minded. We should not be afraid to question established dogmas and regularly reassess whether they still hold true. We should embrace innovation and evolve better approaches to constantly improve care.
- Why did you get involved with the Society, and why should other professionals working in endocrinology do the same?
The Society for Endocrinology is an outstanding organisation that offers invaluable support to its members and elevates the profile of endocrinology worldwide. It provides numerous opportunities to get involved and contribute to advancing our specialty. I highly encourage colleagues to volunteer for committee roles and for editorial work to support Society public engagement initiatives like ‘You and Your Hormones’. Engaging with the Society is not only rewarding and enriching, but also great fun!
- Have you been to SfE BES before? If so, can you tell us about your experience of the event?
I believe I have attended every SfE BES since starting specialist training in 2008! Over the years, SfE BES has consistently overachieved in delivering high-quality talks and events. Countless inspiring presentations and encounters with expert speakers have broadened my horizons, significantly deepened my understanding, and sparked new research ideas.
Each medallist and award winner brings a unique story of passion and dedication to the field. We are excited to be highlighting their efforts and look forward to showcasing more winners with you throughout the year. Their achievements will be formally recognised at our flagship event, the annual SfE BES Conference, where they will be presented with their awards in front of peers and leaders from across the endocrine community.
There's still time to book your place at SfE BES 2026 for the UK’s biggest celebration of endocrinology. Our annual conference brings together the brightest minds, the latest discoveries, and the most inspiring conversations in the field. Join us in Harrogate, from 2-4 March 2026, to celebrate the Society medallists and award winners successes, and connect and learn with our inspiring community.
Disclaimer: Pharmaceutical companies' sponsorship covers the exhibition space at SfE BES, with no influence over the agenda or arrangements. This excludes sponsored symposia sessions, where the programme is developed and speakers identified by the sponsor. https://bit.ly/434gEVB
