Professor Alan Thompson is a globally recognized leader in neurological sciences, currently serving as Dean of the Faculty of Brain Sciences at University College London and holding the distinguished Garfield Weston Professorship of Clinical Neurology. He maintains an active clinical practice as an honorary consultant neurologist at the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery in Queen Square, where he has established an international reputation for clinical excellence and scientific innovation. His leadership extends beyond UCL as Pro-Provost for London, where he shapes strategic academic partnerships across the capital while advancing neuroscience research priorities. Professor Thompson's distinguished career reflects a unique integration of clinical practice, academic leadership, and research excellence, positioning him at the forefront of contemporary neurological sciences.
Professor Thompson's pioneering research has fundamentally transformed the understanding and treatment of progressive multiple sclerosis, an area historically characterized by limited therapeutic options and challenging disease management. His work has been instrumental in developing novel assessment methodologies and clinical trial frameworks that have significantly improved outcome measures for patients with this debilitating condition. He has published extensively in high-impact medical journals, with his research on neuroimaging biomarkers and neuroprotective strategies influencing clinical guidelines and therapeutic development worldwide. His leadership in major international studies has established new paradigms for evaluating disease progression and treatment efficacy in multiple sclerosis research.
Beyond his research contributions, Professor Thompson has been a driving force in building global collaborations and mentoring the next generation of neurologists through his leadership roles at UCL and internationally. As an NIHR Senior Investigator Emeritus, he continues to shape national research priorities while fostering interdisciplinary approaches that bridge dementia research, mental health, and neurological disorders. His recent work focuses on integrating advanced neuroimaging techniques with clinical assessments to predict disease trajectories and personalize treatment approaches for individuals with multiple sclerosis. Professor Thompson's enduring commitment to translating scientific discoveries into improved patient care ensures his continued influence on the future direction of neurological research and clinical practice worldwide.
