The UK Kidney Association is delighted to share that longstanding member Professor Sunil Bhandari has been awarded the William Cullen Medal by the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh (RCPE).

The William Cullen Medal recognises "the greatest benefit done to Practical Medicine" and is one of the College's highest honours. The award recognises Professor Bhandari's outstanding contribution to kidney medicine through his clinical practice, research, education and leadership.

Professor Bhandari has been a member of the UKKA for more than 30 years and has made a significant contribution to the Association throughout that time. He currently serves as Co-Chair of the UK Kidney Week Programme Committee and Co-Course Director for the Advanced Nephrology Course. He has also previously chaired the UKKA International Committee and serves on the Education and Training Committee.

Alongside his longstanding involvement with the UKKA, Professor Bhandari is an internationally recognised clinician, researcher and educator. He co-authored the landmark PIVOTAL trial and was Chief Investigator of the NIHR-funded STOP-ACEi trial, helping to advance the care of people living with kidney disease in the UK and internationally.

 Commenting on the award, UKKA Presidents Katie Vinen and Lisa Ancliffe said:

"Sunil combines his clinical excellence with an exceptional commitment to inspiring, teaching and developing renal teams both in the UK and abroad with a strong focus on developing staff across the whole MPT. His contributions to research and to education through UKKW, the advanced nephrology course and through his international work are well known. Sunil is a very deserving recipient of this highly prestigious award  -  we are delighted to see him honoured for this outstanding work."  

Reflecting on receiving the award, Professor Bhandari said:

“This recognition is not an individual achievement alone. I have been fortunate to work alongside exceptional colleagues locally and nationally, and with organisations such as the UK Kidney Association and Kidney Research UK…

 Throughout my career, I have been continually inspired by the generosity, commitment and shared purpose of those around me. This award reflects what can be achieved when we work together to advance knowledge, improve care and invest in the next generation. I remain committed to continuing that contribution and helping shape the future of kidney medicine and medical education."

Congratulations to Professor Bhandari on this well-deserved recognition.

Read the full announcement on the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh website.