Robert McFarland

I trained in paediatrics and paediatric neurology in London and Newcastle upon Tyne, where I also began my research career studying the molecular consequences and clinical problems associated with mutations of mitochondrial DNA. Since then my research has included the identification of mitochondrial and nuclear gene defects causing disease in children, factors determining the pathogenicity of mitochondrial DNA mutations and multiple clinical research projects. The latter has specifically involved the development of clinical assessment tools (NMDAS and NPMDS), drug trials and more recently, bringing together a living cohort of ~1900 individuals with confirmed mitochondrial disease. I am leading a study on the outcome of Mitochondrial Donation following the parliamentary changes to the law that have permitted this procedure in the UK. Together with Dr Jane Stewart I run the Mitochondrial Assisted Reproductive Technologies (Mito-ART) Clinic at the Newcastle Fertility Centre. I have published over 175 peer reviewed papers in high impact journals and I am currently Professor of Paediatric Mitochondrial Medicine and Action Medical Research Professor of Neuromuscular Disease at the Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Newcastle University and Director of the national (NHS) Highly Specialised Service for Rare Mitochondrial Disorders.