What’s happened 

Dr Michael Backhouse, Associate Professor at the University of Warwick, has been awarded the Rising Research Leaders Prize by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). 

The award was given in the late postdoctoral category for clinical trials research supported by an NIHR Clinical Trials Fellowship.  It is one of 20 awards being made as part of the NIHR 20th anniversary celebrations. 

The prize recognises Michael as one of 20 emerging research leaders across all health and social care professions.  

His research aims to improve outcomes for people with foot and ankle problems resulting from musculoskeletal disease and other long-term conditions.  

Earlier this year, Michael also received the Research, Innovation and Leadership award from the Royal College of Podiatry for his work on BigToe Inserts. 

Why this matters to members 

Recognition from a national research organisation such as the NIHR helps raise the profile of podiatry's contribution to clinical research and demonstrates the role podiatrists can play in improving outcomes across health and care. 

Michael's area of research remains relatively under-researched, and his work has contributed to its development. 

He now leads a growing multidisciplinary team working to develop clinical research that contributes to patient care, clinical expertise and health services. 

His research has also been published widely and has contributed to national and international guidelines, policies and frameworks. 

For podiatrists who do not work in research themselves, Michael's recognition is also a reminder that research can have a direct influence on clinical practice – helping to build the evidence that informs how patients are assessed, treated and supported. 

Links and references 

• Rising Research Leaders Prize winners for NIHR20 

• In pictures: Royal College of Podiatry Awards 2026