A consultant radiologist from University Hospitals Tees has been awarded an Honorary Professorship by Teesside University.
Professor Maya Jafari, a consultant musculoskeletal radiologist based at The James Cook University Hospital, has been appointed as an honorary professor within the School of Health and Life Sciences at Teesside University.
The appointment recognises Professor Jafari’s longstanding contribution to clinical practice, healthcare education and research and innovation – both regionally and nationally.
She is a National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) grant holder and leads research exploring how imaging and care pathways for young people with scoliosis can be improved. Key recent research studies she has been involved in include surveys to explore how AI is used within x-ray departments, a SPINE study and, a clinical study to reduce radiation exposure in children with scoliosis who undergo regular x-rays.
Her research focuses on translating evidence into practical improvements in healthcare and patient experience.
Professor Jafari also makes a national contribution to radiology through her work with the Royal College of Radiologists, where she is an editor and clinical adviser for iRefer, the college’s clinical decision-support guidance.
Alongside her research and clinical work, Professor Jafari has a longstanding commitment to education and mentorship. She supports the development of healthcare professionals and trainees through regional teaching, supervision and academic collaboration, and has a particular interest in helping clinicians develop the skills to understand and apply research and innovation in healthcare.
Speaking about her appointment, Professor Jafari said: “I am absolutely delighted and honoured to be appointed Honorary Professor at Teesside University.
I have trained and worked in the North East since 2005, so it feels particularly special to have my contribution recognised in this way.
“I am incredibly grateful to colleagues at the Academic Centre for Surgery at James Cook, for the mentorship and support they have provided throughout my academic career, and for helping create an environment in which research and innovation can develop alongside clinical practice.
“I look forward to contributing to the School of Health and Life Sciences, strengthening the links between the university and the NHS, and supporting the next generation of healthcare professionals and researchers in our region.”
The honorary professorship provides an opportunity to further strengthen collaboration between Teesside University and University Hospitals Tees, supporting shared interests in education, research and innovation.
Professor Jafari will work alongside colleagues within the School of Health and Life Sciences to contribute to teaching, academic development and research, while continuing her clinical role caring for patients across the region.
The appointment also provides opportunities to build on the relationship between the university and NHS colleagues and to support the translation of research, education and innovation into improvements in healthcare for patients and communities across the North East.