By Violet Brown
A KIRCUBBIN woman has been honoured for her dedication to kidney research, and especially for her support for the next generation of kidney researchers.
Professor Amy Jayne McKnight, a lecturer and researcher at Queen’s University, Belfast, was awarded the Osman Lecture at a special event which was held in Bournemouth during UK Kidney Week.
As a kidney disease expert she was invited to deliver a lecture in recognition of her exceptional contributions to kidney disease research, mentorship and rare disease advocacy.
The Osman Lecture was established by Ruth Osman in memory of her husband Dr Arnold Osman who was founding member and first President of the Renal Association and celebrates individuals who have significantly advanced kidney disease research and clinical practice.
Ms McKnight’s key achievements include producing over 150 high-impact publications clearly presenting the genetic and molecular mechanisms of kidney disease; a founding role in the establishment of a ground breaking international research consortium; advocating for rare kidney diseases, shaping national guidelines and clinical practice; and supporting researchers in their early career through training and leadership development.
A spokesman for the United Kingdom Kidney Association said Ms McKnight exemplified the innovative spirit and commitment to patient impact which the Osman Lecture represents.
“Her work continues to transform our understanding and management of genetic kidney diseases”, he added.
Speaking of her ‘honour and delight’ at receiving the award, Ms McKnight explained kidney disease has been declared a United Kingdom public health emergency and was predicted to be the fifth leading cause of premature death by 2040.
“More than seven million people live with chronic kidney disease in the United Kingdom – that’s more than 10% of our population,” she said.
“This award recognises the progress we’ve made towards improving diagnosis of kidney disease, helping identify people at higher risk of developing severe kidney disease who need dialysis or a kidney transplant, and supporting people with kidney disease to live as well as possible for as long as possible”.
