Looking Back, Looking Forward: 10 Years on MQ’s Science Council

by Craig Perryman | 4 Aug 2026

At a glance

Championing mental health research: Andrew helped shape MQ's scientific direction and supported innovative research that brings researchers together and advances the field.
Data science has transformed research: Better-connected datasets, improved data sharing, and advances in AI and machine learning are accelerating discoveries in mental health.
Collaboration is key to success: Andrew encourages researchers to work with diverse teams, stay focused on meaningful questions, and combine technical expertise with curiosity and collaboration.

How did you first get involved with MQ?

I first became involved through Cynthia Joyce, who was then MQ’s Chief Executive. I had already seen the impact of organisations such as Cancer Research UK and the British Heart Foundation, and I was very aware that mental health research lacked a comparable major UK charity. I was therefore delighted to support MQ when it was established.

What made you want to join the Science Council?

MQ had the potential to bring researchers together, support ambitious work and raise the profile of mental health research. Joining the Science Council offered an opportunity to help shape its scientific direction and ensure that its funding supported rigorous and innovative research.

How has the data science landscape changed over the last 10 years?

Ten years ago, the data landscape was much more fragmented. Datasets were often held separately, access was difficult, and sharing was less common.

We now have national infrastructure for mental health data science, much larger and better-connected datasets, and a growing expectation that research data should be made available for wider public benefit wherever this can be done safely and responsibly.

The methods have also changed rapidly. Machine learning and artificial intelligence can now help researchers analyse information at a scale and level of complexity that would previously have been impossible.

The UK Government is investing more in data science research. What are your thoughts?

This investment is very welcome. Data science and AI could help transform our understanding of mental illness, improve prevention and help us develop better treatments.

However, investment in technology must be accompanied by investment in people, skills and trustworthy research environments. Researchers need to handle data responsibly, involve patients and the public, and make their methods and findings as open and reusable as possible. Data sharing should become the norm, while protecting confidentiality and maintaining public trust.

What has been your proudest moment during your time on the Science Council?

I am proud of the range and quality of research that MQ has supported, particularly its commitment to early-career researchers and to work that might have struggled to attract funding elsewhere.

More broadly, I am proud to have helped MQ develop into an influential voice for mental health research and to have worked with such a committed group of scientists, staff and supporters.

If you had one piece of advice for researchers going into genomics, or any other area of mental health research, what would it be?

Find a group of people you enjoy working with and who bring different skills and perspectives. Become expert in the methods and data you use, but do not lose sight of the question you are trying to answer. The best research usually comes from combining technical expertise with curiosity, collaboration and a genuine interest in the problem.

Above all, work on something you find important and enjoyable. Research is demanding, and enthusiasm helps sustain you through the inevitable setbacks.