University of Bradford academic awarded historic honour by Royal College of General Practitioners

Professor Mahendra Patel becomes first pharmacist in England to receive RCGP Honorary Fellowship

Professor Mahendra G Patel OBE, a distinguished academic pharmacist with deep-rooted ties to the University of Bradford, has been awarded an Honorary Fellowship by the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP)—the highest honour the medical College bestows on a non-GP and the first of its kind for a pharmacist in England.

The recognition marks a significant milestone in healthcare leadership, highlighting Professor Patel’s exceptional contribution to inclusive research, professional development, and collaboration between pharmacy and general practice.

“We are incredibly proud of Professor Patel’s achievements,” said Professor Shirley Congdon, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Bradford. “His commitment to tackling health inequalities and building inclusive healthcare systems is an inspiration to our students, staff and the wider sector. This award is a testament to the strength of our research and professional community.”

A Pioneer in Inclusive Research and Healthcare Policy

Professor Patel, who began his career as a community pharmacist, and now serves as the founding Director of the Centre for Research Equity at the University of Oxford and holds numerous leadership roles across the NHS, national healthcare bodies as well as overseas.

His work has influenced national health policy, driven more inclusive clinical trial recruitment during the COVID-19 pandemic, and helped shape national research frameworks in partnership with governments across the UK.

A former board member and treasurer of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, Professor Patel is also a member of England’s Pharmacy Professional Leadership Advisory Board and a Professional Advisor to the Chief Pharmaceutical Officer at NHS England.

 

A Milestone for Pharmacy and General Practice

Reflecting on the honour during his acceptance speech at the inaugural RCGP Awards Ceremony, Professor Patel said:

“This is a real ‘pinch-me’ moment. As the first pharmacist in England—and only the second across the UK—to receive this Fellowship, I accept it not just as a personal honour, but as a powerful and symbolic milestone for the professions of pharmacy and general practice.”

He added:

“The future of healthcare must be one of collaboration. Let’s use moments like this to build momentum—grounded in trust, shared purpose, and ambition for the communities we serve.”

 

Strong Ties to the University of Bradford

While based at the University of Oxford, Professor Patel’s relationship with the University of Bradford is longstanding. He has collaborated with academic staff on projects aimed at widening access to healthcare education, improving diversity in research participation, and mentoring healthcare professionals from under-represented backgrounds.

His leadership aligns with the University’s mission to foster inclusive innovation and transform lives through healthcare and research.

 

Factfile

• About Professor Mahendra G Patel OBE:
  Professor Patel is an internationally recognised trailblazing pharmacist, policy advisor, and academic leader. He currently directs the Centre for Research Equity at the Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford.
• About the RCGP Honorary Fellowship:
  The Honorary Fellowship is the most prestigious award given by the Royal College of General Practitioners to non-GPs who have made outstanding contributions to healthcare.
• About the University of Bradford:
  The University of Bradford is a pioneer in socially inclusive and applied healthcare education and research. Its mission is to make knowledge work for the benefit of society and future generations.

 

Clearing 2025

• Clearing 2025 opens on July 5 and runs until October 20, offering prospective students the chance to secure a place at university. Prospective students may include those taking all A-level/T-level (or equivalent) qualifications, or mature students who want to return to education.
• Call-lines and self apply form will be open from the first day of Clearing on July 5 –  08081 969129.
• The University of Bradford is offering a range of services this year, including its Clearing Community Pass, which includes webinars, a dedicated phone line and SMS and email updates.
• You can use Clearing if you have changed your mind about what or where you want to study, received higher or lower grades than you expected or haven’t yet applied to study at university for September 2025.