Congratulations to Professor Graeme Black, Honorary Consultant in Genetics and Ophthalmology, for his OBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List

Professor Graeme Black, Honorary Consultant at Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (CMFT) and Professor in Genetics and Ophthalmology at The University of Manchester has been awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List.

Graeme, who is also the Strategic Director at the Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, has played an integral role in developing Manchester’s position as a leader in the field of inherited ophthalmic disease, since joining CMFT and University of Manchester in 1995 as a Wellcome Trust Clinician-Scientist Fellow.

Graeme’s strategic leadership has been integral to developing Manchester’s infrastructure and research investment, including The Greater Manchester NHS Genomic Medicine Centre and numerous successful grants from NIHR, Wellcome Trust, Department of Health and national eye charities to fund further research.

Throughout his career, Graeme has sought to improve the diagnosis, management and treatment of rare genetic disorders associated with visual disability. This has involved working closely with patient groups and visual impairment organisations. Most recently, Graeme has overseen a scientific team that provides genetic testing for inherited ophthalmic disease. Having introduced genetic testing for these conditions over the last decade, this can now produce a diagnosis in around 80% of children with retinal dystrophies.

Professor Black commented:

I am delighted to have received this honour. I am privileged to be part of a team locally and nationally, who over the past decade have progressed from discovering genes linked with inherited retinal diseases, to developing and implementing genetic diagnostics within the NHS. Being able to provide accurate and prompt diagnosis is vital to ensure patients receive the right support and treatment going forward.

Professor Neil Hanley, Clinical Head of Research & Innovation at CMFT said:

I am thrilled that Graeme has received this honour. Graeme is at the forefront of Manchester’s drive in personalised healthcare. His dedication and effort over many years has made a difference to the lives of many patients. His work is a very strong part of why genomic medicine and ophthalmology in Manchester has such as strong international reputation.