WSI Associate Director Professor Michael Boniface appointed to key research role

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Professor Michael Boniface as the Co-Director Designate for the proposed new phase of the Applied Research Collaboration (ARC) in Wessex.

This initiative is proudly hosted by University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust in collaboration with the University of Southampton’s School of Health Sciences. Following a highly competitive selection process, Professor Boniface’s appointment is a testament to his exceptional contributions to the field of applied health and care research.

Professor Catherine Bowen, the Director Designate of the proposed ARC and current Deputy Director of ARC Wessex, shared her enthusiasm for the appointment:

“ Michael emerged as an outstanding candidate. His ground-breaking research during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond has significantly impacted the health and care system. His leadership in the ARC Workforce and Health Systems theme has driven true innovation. With extensive experience in overseeing and implementing large-scale research projects, his contributions have been instrumental in advancing our application for the next ARC .”

Beyond his new role, Professor Boniface serves as the Director of the IT Innovation Centre in the School of Electronics and Computer Science at the University of Southampton. Over his career, he has successfully led international research projects valued at over £14 million.

Reflecting on his appointment, Professor Boniface said: “ Creativity, discovery, and the innovative use of health data and technology will be integral in supporting our research efforts to align with the government’s plans to transition health, public health and and social care from analogue to digital. This approach fuels pioneering ideas that have the potential to transform lives. Our ability to swiftly translate these ideas into real-world benefits through collaborative, applied research makes this region an incredibly exciting place to be .”

The proposed new phase of the Applied Research Collaboration (ARC) for the Wessex region is positioned to start in April 2026, spanning five years. If all goes well, this initiative will secure a £16 million investment to enhance applied health and care research. The application to the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) is currently being reviewed, with a decision anticipated in autumn 2025.