“Most of the things that really mattered in my career didn’t arrive neatly planned, sequential, or labelled as ‘important’ - Professor Duncan Sharp delivers his inaugural lecture

As Professor of Health Partnerships and Knowledge Exchange, Duncan connects universities, NHS partners, local authorities, and industry to deliver solutions to real-world challenges, shape workforce development, strengthen communities, and improve health outcomes.

As a scientist, Duncan’s inter-disciplinary approach to research included electrocuting tomatoes and origami to understand metabolism. After a tap on the shoulder asking him to act into a leadership role, Duncan began to consider how to create the environments for others to thrive.

Professor Sharp, who has represented Team GB and held the British record in bench press, said:

“Serendipity isn’t luck – we can create the right environments and have the right conversations to make great things happen.

”During my early work, openness to new directions enabled interdisciplinary research, innovation and real-world applications.

“These experiences demonstrate how research impact often develops when different subjects work together and when universities collaborate with partners outside academia. Almost everything I am proud of has been forged around partnerships - ones that last beyond a project, bring together different people and skills.”

Duncan, who has been Dean at Leeds Beckett since 2016, explored how an interaction between serendipity, strategic thinking and strong professional relationships defined his career path more than any plan. Duncan also reflected on his transition into leadership, and how to create the conditions for others to follow their own curiosity, build effective partnerships and be well-prepared take opportunities when they arise.

The inaugural lecture celebrated not only Professor Sharp’s career achievements but also the wider role of universities in fostering partnership, innovation and positive social change. Under Duncan’s leadership, a strong focus on strategic partnerships has helped position Leeds Beckett University as a trusted partner across local, regional and national health, care, policy and research systems.

Those partnerships, which are having real-world impact on policy and health outcomes, include:

Board Member of the Leeds Academic Health Partnership (LAHP), which is supporting student placements and research while also helping the city to respond effectively to challenges like covid.

Co-chair of Leeds Clinical Senate; which brings authentic community voice to health decision-making.

Board Member of the Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC) Leeds Hub, the first hub outside of Whitehall, showcasing the innovation in the city and influencing national strategy around workforce and neighbourhood health policy .

Professor Sharp added:

“These partnerships have delivered tangible public benefits, including increased research income, expanded placement and workforce opportunities, embedded research collaborations and greater influence on policy and professional practice.”

Duncan is a Principal Fellow of AdvanceHE (PFHEA) and a Fellow of the Royal Society for Biology (FRSB).