To maximise the impact of our work, we are continuing to grow our research and innovation portfolio, building on strong foundations of our partnership with Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust (PHUT)—supported by the Strategic Partnership Board and the Faculty of Science and Health—we are delighted to announce the appointment of our first two Clinical Academic Research Leads.
Professor Paul Kalra and Professor Jim Khan bring internationally recognised research expertise and long-standing collaborative links with University of Portsmouth academics. Their appointments mark an important step in advancing our shared ambition: to deliver care informed by the latest evidence while simultaneously generating new knowledge for future patients. This principle sits at the heart of our University Hospital partnership and is increasingly evident through our growing culture of excellence in medical education and research. Professors Kalra and Khan will play a pivotal role in further developing and embedding joint research initiatives across both institutions.
Professor Paul Kalra, Consultant Cardiologist, specialises in heart failure and complex cardiac device therapy. He has held significant national leadership roles, including Chair of the British Society for Heart Failure, and is widely recognised for his contributions to improving heart failure services, education and patient advocacy across the NHS. As Chief Investigator of the British Heart Foundation–funded IRONMAN trial, Professor Kalra has led research that has shaped international guidelines on the use of intravenous iron in heart failure.
Professor Jim Khan, Consultant Colorectal Surgeon, is internationally renowned for his expertise in colorectal cancer, advanced laparoscopic surgery and robotic techniques. A leading figure in robotic colorectal surgery, he has trained surgeons across the UK and Europe and serves as a national and European trainer in minimally invasive surgical approaches. He also holds key leadership roles within the Royal College of Surgeons of England and associated colleges, with a focus on robotic research and training.
We congratulate Professors Kalra and Khan on their appointments and warmly welcome their shared commitment to collaboration. Their leadership will further strengthen our partnership with PHUT and support our mission to deliver integrated highest quality research with real-world impact.
Their leadership will further strengthen our partnership with PHUT and support our mission to deliver integrated, high-quality research with real-world impact.
Lucy Sayer
Strategic Partnership Board
April 2026