Honorary doctorate for Vivienne Parry

Writer and broadcaster Vivienne Parry OBE says she was thrilled to be offered an honorary doctorate by Sheffield Hallam University for her “distinguished contribution” to increasing the understanding of science and academic research through public engagement.

A long-standing MJA member, Vivenne presented Tomorrow’s World in the 1990s and reported for Panorama. A scientist by training, she has also presented a number of radio shows for the BBC including eight series of Am I normal?.

Writing widely about health, particularly the “new and innovative”, including for the Guardian, she has also published books including The Truth about Hormones and the Real Pregnancy Guide.

Genomics England

Currently Vivienne has a part time role has head of engagement at Genomics England and has recently completed a term as board member for UK Research and Innovation.

Speaking with the MJA, Parry said attending the ceremony in Sheffield was a “truly lovely day”.

“This was such an honour and what gave me special pleasure was ‘graduating’ at the same time as some 500 students destined to be the healthcare scientists of the future.”

Source of stories

She added: “For all MJA members, can I just tip you the wink that Sheffield Hallam is a brilliant source of health stories. My favourite was using fingerprints to screen for breast cancer but there were masses more.”

MJA vice chair, Emma Wilkinson, a freelance journalist who is also an associate lecturer at Sheffield Hallam, said: “Congratulations to Vivienne on this well deserved honour. It’s always incredibly inspirational when we see the excellent work of our members recognised in this way.”