RCPsych Awards 2025
Our yearly RCPsych Awards celebrate the best and brightest teams and individuals in our field.
Below you can watch the awards ceremony and find details of the winners across all of our awards categories, from psychiatrists of all grades and levels of training, to teams working throughout mental health care.
Watch the awards ceremony
You can also view the full awards programme, which includes biographies, photos and nominators' comments for all shortlisted candidates, as well as descriptions of each of the prize categories.
Meet this year's winners
Lifetime Achievement Award
Professor Sir Robin Murray
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Robin Murray is a psychiatrist concerned with finding the causes of psychosis, and improving its treatment. His work challenged the prevailing view of schizophrenia as an adult-onset brain disease, instead demonstrating that it is in part a neurodevelopmental disorder fuelled by insults to the brain during early life.
He has identified that environmental and social factors are of great importance in determining susceptibility to psychosis. He found that migrants to the United Kingdom have a much greater incidence of psychosis than their counterparts back home, which appears largely due to social adversity. Robin also identified an increased risk of schizophrenia following heavy use of cannabis, particularly in adolescence, and often speaks publicly about this.
He currently researches the molecular effects of THC, the main psychotogenic ingredient of cannabis, and another component known as CBD, which appears to partly block the effects of THC; the high THC/CBD ratio in modern skunk cannabis carries more risk than traditional marijuana. Robin is now most interested in the interaction between predisposing genes and environmental factors in causing psychosis.
“It is a delight to write in support of Professor Sir Robin Murray, probably the most influential, respected and also liked (they don’t always go together) psychiatrist of the modern era. His immense contributions have already been acknowledged by the award of Fellowship of the Royal Society (FRS) – the fifth psychiatrist ever to get that honour, and even Freud was only an honorary, and being knighted for his services to medicine in 2011. His academic and professional records are there for all to see. He has published over 1,500 papers, which have been cited about 130,000 times (that’s on Scopus, the “toughest” of the league tables, add another 500 papers if you use Google, and by the time I have finished writing this citation it will have undoubtedly gone even higher, since he remains incredibly active.
“Robin will be best known for his work on severe mental illness. He developed the neurodevelopmental hypothesis of schizophrenia, and then spent decades challenging his own work, as great scientists do. Despite all his efforts to disprove it, there’s no doubt that it has stood the test of time. He was at the forefront of work on the genetics of the disorder, particular using twin studies, and there is no equally no doubt that genes play a major role, even if the more we know, understanding how gets more and not less complex. In later years he has made increasing contributions to establishing the role of environmental factors, such as poverty, urbanicity and cannabis as well as our genetic inheritance – the last mentioned has major implications for drug policy, although whether we will listen remains to be seen. And finally he is not blind to the possible role that the legal medications that we prescribe to those suffering from schizophrenia also come at a longer term cost.
“But Robin is much more than a scholar. Through his razor-sharp intellect, extraordinary capacity for hard work, great personal charm and complete integrity, he has been inspiring junior psychiatrists to enter academic psychiatry for over 40 years – I know because I am one of them. 41 years ago I turned up to be interviewed for a place on the Maudsley rotation, where Robin was the Dean and the Guardian of the Gates. It wasn’t an auspicious interview – I was covered in engine oil because my second hand car had not survived the journey down from Newcastle. Robin claims I tried to sell him the wreck, still smoking at Camberwell Green. Worse, I professed a passion for psychiatry research, which Robin guessed wasn’t true (although thankfully that would come later). But somehow in the words of Abba, he took a chance on me. And so I became one of the over 60 professors of psychiatry, perhaps more, that Robin has welcomed and then supported over the decades.
“His greatest strength is that despite being the most eminent academic psychiatrist in the UK, and the most highly cited schizophrenia researcher in the world, Robin is incapable of being pompous, aloof or rude. He has been clinically active all this time, and I have rarely met one of his patients, or their families, who speak of him with anything other than affection. And this is not just with patients, he also is never too busy or important to speak to even the most junior medical or nursing staff. It is a pleasure to write in support of Robin receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award of our College. Perhaps though we should drop the word 'lifetime' because he shows not the slightest sign of slowing down, and there is still plenty more to come.”
Medical Student of the Year
An Nakamura
A medical student at the time of nomination and former Psych Star, An is now a foundation doctor. She is an enthusiastic musician and gamer, and passionate about the intersection between arts and mental health.
As an aspiring CAMHS psychiatrist, she is a co-founder of a startup aiming to support the development of emotional literacy in children and young people.
The judges said:
“An is an outstanding student who brings a unique perspective to psychiatry as a researcher, musician, educator, leader and entrepreneur. Her ability to promote healthcare innovation effectively to the public through Gaming the Mind and Rain and Shine is very impressive.”
Core Resident Doctor of the Year
Dr Stephen Naulls
Dr Stephen Naulls is an NIHR Academic Clinical Fellow in Psychiatry at Brighton and Sussex Medical School. As a CT1, he launched the world's first brain imaging study assessing how chemsex affects brain structure and function.
He also works as a Parliamentary Academic Fellow, where he has completed briefings on psychedelic-assisted therapy and public mental health.
The judges said:
“I was highly impressed by the variety of and level of Dr Naulls' achievements despite him being at such an early stage of his psychiatry training. His contributions across multiple areas - research, medical education, clinical practice, and policy are highly commendable. Dr Naulls is clearly an exceptionally hardworking and talented psychiatrist in training and he has a very bright future ahead of him!
“What stood out most in Stephen’s nomination was the exceptional breadth of his contributions; spanning clinical excellence, national policy, research, and education; all grounded in a clear commitment to equity and evidence-based care.”
Higher Resident Doctor of the Year
Dr Asilay Seker
Asilay is a clinical research fellow studying emotion dysregulation in young people accessing CAMHS. She also works with national and international psychiatric organisations to support the professional development and academic engagement of trainee and early career psychiatrists.
The judges said:
“Asilay is a well-rounded outstanding higher trainee. She excels clinically, as a leader, an educator and a researcher who gives opportunity for her fellow colleagues to excel including founding the International Journal of Psychiatric Trainees.”
Patient Contributor of the Year
The Young Adult Ambassadors Group
Expert by Experience group of young people aged 16-25 that work alongside CNWL staff to contribute to the Young Adult Pathway.
The judges said:
“The Young Adult Ambassadors group have impressively integrated as part of the local young adult pathway within their Trust. Particular highlights of their work were setting up the Discovery College and developing courses tailored specifically to young adults. The fantastic energy of this project shone through each section of their application making them worthy winners.”
Carer Contributor of the Year
Dr Rekha Lodhia
Dr Rekha Lodhia is a respected expert and thought leader with a PhD from Loughborough University on promoting walking for health. Drawing on lived experience, she champions mental health promotion, inclusion, and holistic wellbeing.
Her work blends academic insight with real-world application, empowering individuals, teams, organisations, and communities to achieve meaningful growth, transformation, and sustainable positive change.
The judges said:
“Rekha has made a huge impact as chair of lived experience action research group showing impressive impact in the role by improving the perception of health issues and mental health services. Her knowledge as a QI-trained expert by experience has proved vital in addressing culture-based health inequalities in mental health settings highlighting her unique perspective and its benefit of all.”
Psychiatric Communicator of the Year
Dr Khurram Sadiq
He is a Neurodevelopmental Psychiatrist , an Author of ‘Explaining AuDHD’ , 6 times TEDx Speaker, delivered Key Notes in UN and UNESCO about Neurodiversity.
He specialises in creating conducive places for Neurodivergent community. He is an advocate for Neurodiversity and Neurodivergent community.
The judges said:
“In a landscape dominated by misunderstanding and stigma, Dr Sadiq's communicating about neurodevelopmental conditions stood out for its accessibility, cultural humility, and humanity. His neuroaffirmative approach has directly impacted early recognition, increased self-acceptance, and reduced stigma around psychiatric diagnosis in underserved communities.
“Dr Sadiq has enhanced our knowledge of AuDHD (co – occurring autism and ADHD) by sharing both his lived experience of neurodivergence and his clinical experience as a neurodevelopmental psychiatrist. He has communicated his understanding with a global audience through print media, book publications, TED talks and podcasts.”
Psychiatric Educator of the Year
Dr Agnes Ayton
In 2024, Dr Ayton led the Credential in Eating Disorders, a landmark postgraduate programme delivered through a hybrid model combining online learning, mentoring and in-person simulation.
Building on her long-standing commitment to improving medical education, patient safety and workforce, she also led the AoMRC national guidance recognising eating disorders as a core medical competency. Her collaborative leadership achieved outstanding feedback.
The judges said:
“Among several impressive nominations for Psychiatric Educator of the Year, Dr Agnes Ayton’s application stood out for her contributions at national level.
“Her most impressive contributions have been her leading on the rollout of UK’s first Credential in Eating Disorders and Treating Patients Well (AoMRC, 2024 AOMRC Treating Patients Well ) – the first national guidance to formally recognise eating disorders as a required area of learning for all medical professionals are significant pieces of work which impact on training, leadership and patient safety.
“Through inclusive leadership, innovation and national impact, Dr Ayton has transformed psychiatric education in a high-risk field, making her an outstanding candidate for Psychiatric Educator of the Year.”
Psychiatric IMG Champion of the Year
Dr Asma Javed
Dr Asma Javed is Consultant Liaison Psychiatrist in Black Country and TPD for International Medical Graduates and Differential Attainment in West Midlands.
She strives to enhance IMG experiences and reduce differential attainment gaps through a number of initiatives like educator talks, deanery induction days, induction checklists with signposted resources, trainee meetings, exam support, projects like buddy schemes and peer groups.
The judges said:
“I was particularly impressed and what stood Dr Javed out from the other candidates was her hands-on approach particularly in relation to training. I liked the concept of 1:1 “check ins“. Her contribution in the 2023 and 24 international Congress particularly focusing on IMG Doctors also stood out.
“What stood out most was how the final sentence below succinctly captured the essence of the entire submission:
'Overall, Dr. Javed’s commitment to EDI not only benefits IMG doctors but also contributes to more compassionate, accessible, and culturally sensitive mental health services for patients, carers, and staff.'
“This statement compellingly encapsulates both the breadth and impact of Dr. Javed’s contributions.”
Early Career Academic Researcher of the Year
Dr Emanuele Osimo
Emanuele is an Assistant Research Professor at the Department of Psychiatry at Cambridge, and a psychiatrist specialising in psychosis and depression research.
His research utilises data science, and focuses on understanding some of the mechanisms underlying severe mental illness and translating findings into clinical practice.
He combines patient care with cutting-edge research to improve diagnosis and treatment outcomes in psychiatry.
The judges said:
“The panel were impressed by Dr Osimo's innovative research exploring interplay between serious mental illness and physical health; as well as by his work developing and validating a new risk calculator.”
Mid/Senior Career Academic Researcher of the Year
Dr Robert McCutcheon
Rob McCutcheon is an associate professor and consultant psychiatrist at the University of Oxford.
His research investigates both how to use existing treatments more effectively, and how to develop new treatments for people with psychotic disorders like schizophrenia.
This involves testing treatments in both humans and animal models of the illness. In his clinical work he runs the TUNE-UP clinic.
The judges said:
“The panel were impressed by the substantial impact of Dr McCutcheon's research, including through his work on digital prescribing, clinical service design, and mentorship.”
Specialty Doctor/Associate Specialist of the Year
Dr Nudrat Rizvi
Dr Nudrat Rizvi is an immigrant mother of three, fluent in five languages and deeply culturally sensitive. She champions inclusion and transformative care.
A forward-thinking, fierce advocate for neurodiversity, she leads the 'Invisible in Plain Sight' initiative, driving preventive rather than reactive care, while her leadership in CESR and CASC teaching inspires and empowers SAS colleagues across the NHS.
The judges said:
“Dr Rizvi is an exceptional CAMHS psychiatrist passionate about service improvement, medical education and academic research. She supports colleagues with exam preparation, Portfolio Pathway and return to higher training, and is a Clinical and Educational Supervisor. Her work on inclusive services and inclusive HR practices has won her local awards, and she is involved in academic research that supports service improvements.”
Psychiatrist of the Year
Dr Emily Finch
Dr Finch is an addiction psychiatrist who has spent her career advocating for addiction services and their users who are some of the most stigmatised patients in the system.
She is proud to be supporting colleagues in a whole variety of clinical settings by being a passionate leader, manager, teacher. She is an enthusiastic voice for addictions at the College.
The judges said:
“Emily is a compassionate and highly respected leader in psychiatry, admired for her advocacy for the most vulnerable and stigmatised people in society, her national contributions to addiction policy and training, and her dedication as a clinician, colleague, and mento are remarkable.
“Dr Finch's nomination stood out from the rest, with her multi-faceted contributions in the often neglected field of addiction psychiatry, advocating tirelessly for high quality care and combatting stigma that people face.”
Psychiatric Team of the Year: Children and Adolescents
Autism and Intellectual Disability Intensive Intervention Team, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust
AID-IIT are a Tier 4 outpatient CAMHS multi-disciplinary team covering the whole of London. AID-IIT provide specialist support to CYP with a diagnosis of Learning Disability or Autism who are at imminent risk of a CAMHS inpatient admission or already admitted to a CAMHS inpatient unit.
The judges said:
“The judges were impressed with the team’s demonstration of quality improvement and effective use of resources.”
Psychiatric Team of the Year: Working-age Adults
First Contact Team, NHS Practitioner Health
The First Contact Team at NHS Practitioner Health (PH) is the clinical entry point for healthcare professionals accessing confidential mental health and addiction support across England and Scotland.
As the ‘front door’ of PH, its multidisciplinary team of psychiatrists, GPs, and mental health nurses, work collaboratively to deliver timely, compassionate, expert assessment and care to thousands of practitioner patients annually.
The judges said:
“A model of access and innovation, the First Contact Team offers high-impact early intervention for healthcare professionals, a uniquely underserved population. Their biopsychosocial and occupationally sensitive approach has not only delivered impressive clinical outcomes (including superior recovery rates for depression and anxiety) but also supported NHS workforce retention. This is a high-volume, high-trust access model with significant system-level impact.
“The First Contact Team have used an innovative personalised approach to target an underserved group, raising awareness of mental ill health whilst challenging stigma in the workforce and delivered impressive outcomes (84% returning to work and 90% reporting improved wellbeing) to reduce the burden of sickness absence and support recovery. They have clearly demonstrated collaborative care planning, compassionate leadership and system level impact.”
Psychiatric Team of the Year: Older-age Adults
TEWV MHSOP Clinical Network, Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust
TEWV MHSOP clinical network is a trust-wide compassionate Leadership group which sets the clinical standards to shape and drive the delivery of high quality care to older adults across the footprint of our trust geography.
Recent highlights include streamlining and co-creating our dementia and delirium pathways to move away from a linear structure to flexible, person-centred and holistic approach.
The judges said:
“It was impressive to see the way patients were involved from the beginning in creating the clinical model that reflects their needs and experiences
“The team has been able to show patient centred approach and use clear pathways for improving patient care. There has been a clear change noted in a large geographical area. Well done team.”
Psychiatric Team of the Year: Digital Mental Health
Peterborough Clozapine Virtual Ward Team, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust
The Peterborough Clozapine Virtual Ward pioneers community-based initiation of clozapine for treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Combining wearable technology for real-time monitoring with video consultations, it delivers hospital-equivalent care at home
A collaboration between CPFT and NWAFT, this innovative model enhances patient engagement, boosts clinician confidence, and reduces inpatient burden – transforming clozapine access and integrating physical and mental healthcare.
The judges said:
“The Peterborough Clozapine Virtual Ward project demonstrated excellent use of modern wearable technology to address a key issue in mental health care, reducing dependence on inpatient beds and improving the quality of care. The team worked well with system partners and intentionally addressed digital exclusion in their delivery approach. In addition, their work has been publicised in local and national media, helping to reduce the stigma around mental illness and promote the role of technology in enabling great care.
“The award winner address the well known and long standing health inequalities of people with psychosis not being prescribed clozapine despite its clear effectiveness in treating psychosis (NICE Quality Standard 4). The Peterborough Team use digital technology (wearing monitoring devices) and virtual ward approach (normally used with physical health conditions) for people with psychosis. This is in order to follow best prescribing practice for clozapine titration as well as monitor physical health of the patient. The novel approach to technology, virtual ward and daily video consultations has ensured patients with SEMI can be treated in their home rather than in hospital. ”
Psychiatric Team of the Year: Intellectual Disability
Mid-West Essex Learning Disability Psychiatry Team, Hertfordshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
The Psychiatry team is integral to the HPFT Mid-West Essex Community Learning Disability Team.
They support people with learning disabilities in the community with complex mental disorders and challenging behaviour in greater London and Essex, including areas of significant deprivation, and rehabilitate psychiatric inpatients in learning disability, adult Psychiatry and general hospital beds to prevent unnecessary and prolonged hospital stays.
The judges said:
“Effective use of resources and effective MDT working services tailored to individual patients need, boundary-less services working across disciplines to fit the services around patient’s individual needs ”
Psychiatric Team of the Year: Research/Quality Improvement
Maudsley Advanced Treatment Service, unit of the National Affective Disorders Service/Centre for Affective Disorders, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust
The Maudsley Advanced Treatment Service (MATS) operates within the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust (SLaM) PMOA Directorate. MATS provides a specialised, fast-track referral service for patients with complex and Difficult-To-Treat Affective disorders, including Depression and Bipolar Disorder.
The MDT offers expert diagnostic reviews, advanced treatment recommendations, and access to cutting-edge therapies, including complex psychopharmacotherapy and neurostimulation.
The judges said:
“The judges were impressed by the way the team involved and engaged key stakeholders, particularly patients and carers, in the work of the Centre, in identifying the research questions of importance and quality improvement problems to tackle, and in the high quality scientific outputs enabling the sharing and embedding of evidence based practice.
“This work has the potential to improve management of complex mood disorders beyond South London and help other trusts look to embed some of these innovations to improve and develop clinical care.”
Further information
If you have any queries about the awards, please contact the Membership Services team on MembershipServices@rcpsych.ac.uk.
