Sharon Hutchinson BSc, MSc, PhD

Sharon Hutchinson (BSc (Hons), MSc, PhD, CStat, HonMFPH) joined Glasgow Caledonian University in 2013 as a Professor of Epidemiology and Population Health. She leads a broad translational research programme on the epidemiology of blood borne viruses (BBVs), authoring over 150 papers, and has worked jointly with Health Protection Scotland (HPS; the national centre which monitors these viruses and other communicable diseases) for over 15 years. Her research has included a range of studies (involving population-based surveys, surveillance initiatives, novel record linkage exercises, and statistical/economic models) designed to inform on the prevention of BBV infection and its consequences.

In particular, her research included the development of models to estimate the impact of antiviral therapy on the future burden of hepatitis C related liver disease in Scotland, which provided the key evidence to guide a public health response to this epidemic and culminated in Scottish Government investing significantly (approximately £100 million during 2008–2015) in improving prevention, testing, and treatment services as part of their Action Plan on Hepatitis C.

Sharon was actively involved in all phases of this Action Plan – including the development, coordination and evaluation – and Chaired the National Network on Information Generating Initiatives. The Action Plan is regarded globally as a model of best practice and there is now strong evidence that a real breakthrough has been made in the prevention and treatment of hepatitis C infection in Scotland.