The award, in the 'Impact-led Initiative' category, recognised the SHARE Collaborative's exceptional contribution to advancing public health through inclusive and community-centred approaches.
Their initiative, 'Advancing Health Together: The SHARE Research Collaborative's inclusive response to the Mpox outbreak' demonstrated how knowledge exchange can drive tangible, positive outcomes for communities facing health crisis.
Throughout the Mpox outbreak, the SHARE team worked directly with local communities, health professional and public health authorities to ensure that the response was rooted in scientific evidence and aligned with the needs and concerns of those most affected.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Chloe Orkin, Professor of Infections and Inequities and SHARE Collaborative Director said, "It was great to see the SHARE Collaborative's hard-working team recognised for our mpox work last night at the KE UK awards.
"Co-creating research with wonderful community organisations such as the Love Tank CLC and The Sophia Forum and sharing this with public agencies like the WHO, ECDC and UKHSA was incredibly rewarding."
This prestigious award highlights the growing importance of purpose-driven research that moves beyond academic theory to deliver real-world impact. The SHARE Collaborative's approach exemplifies the kind of knowledge exchange that addressed urgent public health challenges, fosters equitable healthcare and builds long-lasting partnerships between academia and the communities it serves.
The Knowledge Exchange UK Awards celebrate the most impactful collaborations between higher education institutions and communities, recognising initiatives that drive positive social, economic and cultural change.
Their victory is a testament to Queen Mary's leadership in using research to tackle global health challenges and improve the well-being of diverse communities.
As part of the recognition, the SHARE Collaborative's work will serve as a model for future initiatives.
