Riyadh: King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) announced the appointment of Professor Peter Goadsby, one of the world's foremost neurologists and neuroscientists, as Senior Associate to the President and Founding Dean of the university's newly established Division of Biomedical Sciences.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the appointment of Professor Goadsby, renowned for his pioneering research that reshaped global understanding and treatment approaches for migraine and cluster headache, marks a pivotal milestone for KAUST. It strengthens the Kingdom's and the university's capacity to translate scientific research into impactful applications that extend from the laboratory into healthcare systems across the region.
At KAUST, Professor Goadsby will lead the establishment of the university's fourth academic division, dedicated to biomedical sciences, where he will serve as its Founding Dean. His expertise will be central to developing the neuroscience program, enhancing the university's capabilities in experimental medicine and clinical research, and building global partnerships that accelerate solutions for neurological disorders.
Professor Goadsby led groundbreaking research that identified the role of the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) as a key driver of migraine, an achievement that resulted in the development of new classes of migraine-specific treatments, improving the quality of life for millions worldwide. In recognition of these contributions, he was awarded the prestigious Brain Prize in 2021, the highest international honor in the field of neuroscience, and was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in 2022.
KAUST President Professor Edward Byrne stated that the appointment reflects the university's strategic investment in attracting global talent and its commitment to becoming a world-leading hub for health innovation, directly supporting the Kingdom's healthcare priorities and Saudi Vision 2030.
Professor Goadsby earned his medical degree and initial neurology training at the University of New South Wales in Australia. His research and postdoctoral training included work at Cornell University and in Paris, followed by advanced training at Queen Square Hospital in London. He has also held leadership roles at the University of New South Wales, the Institute of Neurology at University College London, and the University of California, San Francisco.