John Chester has been Alder Hey’s Director of Research and Innovation since July 2021 and more recently its Chief Scientific Officer. His previous experience includes 20 years as a Clinical Academic in adult oncology.
Following a first degree in Biochemistry at Oxford University and a PhD in Molecular Biology at the Beatson Institute for Cancer Research in Glasgow, John studied medicine at Saint Mary’s Hospital Medical School, a part of Imperial College, London. Building on his background in both laboratory science and innovative clinical trial designs, John was appointed as Clinical Professor in Cardiff in 2011 where he built a national and international profile, including serving as inaugural Director of the Wales Cancer Research Centre. Over the last 10 years, he has increasingly focused on strategic research leadership.
John leads in advancing Alder Hey’s unique position at the interface between NHS and academic paediatrics. He has recently focused on a major new strategic initiative, Alder Hey Futures. This is dedicated to building internal infrastructure and multi-agency external partnerships which promote healthier, happier and fairer futures for children and young people, their families and communities.