Robert Mcfarland MA, MBBS, PhD, MRCP, MRCPH

Prof McFarland trained in pediatrics and pediatric neurology in London and Newcastle upon Tyne. He began his research career studying the molecular consequences and clinical problems associated with mutations of mitochondrial DNA. Since then his research has included the identification of mitochondrial and nuclear gene defects causing disease in children, factors determining the pathogenicity of mitochondrial DNA mutations and numerous clinical research projects. The latter has specifically involved the development of clinical assessment tools (NMDAS and NPMDS), drug trials and more recently, bringing together a living cohort of ~1500 individuals with confirmed mitochondrial disease.

Prof McFarland is leading a study on the outcome of Mitochondrial Donation following the recent parliamentary changes to the law that have permitted this procedure in the UK. Together with Dr Jane Stewart they run the Mitochondrial Assisted Reproductive Technologies (Mito-ART) Clinic at the Newcastle Fertility Centre. Prof McFarland has published over 120 peer reviewed papers in high impact journals. He is currently Professor of Pediatric Mitochondrial Medicine and Action Medical Research Professor of Neuromuscular Disease at the Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research Newcastle University and Honorary Consultant Pediatric Neurologist at the Great North Children’s Hospital.