The UK Kidney Association (UKKA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Maria Pippias MBChB (Hons) MRCP (Neph) PhD as Deputy Director of Informatics Research at the UK Renal Registry (UKRR).

A Consultant Nephrologist at North Bristol NHS Trust and Honorary Clinical Lecturer at the University of Bristol, Dr Pippias brings extensive experience in kidney health data and registry science to the role. Her research focuses on the epidemiology of end-stage kidney disease, with particular interest in kidney transplantation and equitable access to treatment.

Dr Pippias completed her PhD with the European Renal Association Registry in Amsterdam, examining trends and outcomes in kidney transplantation across Europe. She has since developed an international profile in renal data science, co-chairing the International Society of Nephrology’s (ISN) SharE-RR initiative, which supports efforts to develop and standardise renal registries worldwide. She is also a member of the ISN Western Europe Regional Board and a graduate of the ISN Emerging Leaders Programme.

In her new position, Dr Pippias will work closely with Prof Dorothea Nitsch, the UKRR’s Director of Informatics Research, to support the operational delivery of the UKKA’s research strategy, strengthen collaboration across the kidney community, and promote the effective and ethical use of UKKA data to advance clinical insight and improve patient outcomes.

“As a kidney consultant and the new Deputy Director of Informatics Research, my goal is to bridge clinical practice and data science to improve outcomes for people living with kidney disease,” said Dr Pippias. “By maximising access to and effective use of UKKA data, I hope to empower researchers and clinicians alike to generate insights that directly inform patient care.”

The Deputy Director of Informatics Research plays a key role in facilitating high-quality epidemiological and big data research within the UKKA, providing research leadership, statistical guidance, and mentorship for clinical fellows and trainees. This post also supports collaboration with the NHS, universities, and other research institutions to enhance the quality and impact of kidney research across the UK.

Dr Pippias’s appointment reinforces the UKKA’s commitment to strengthening data-driven research and supporting innovation in kidney care.