Rhos Walker is Chief of Staff and Director of Strategy at Health Data Research UK (HDR UK). Rhos joined HDR UK in June 2018 and as a member of the founding team, she has played a central role in shaping the Institute since its inception. She works closely with the Director and Senior Leadership Team to define and deliver HDR UK’s strategic vision, ensuring alignment across its UK‑wide research and infrastructure community. She represents HDR UK nationally and internationally, forges strategic partnerships, and helps secure the long-term support necessary to advance the Institute’s mission.
Rhos delivers a range of major cross‑functional programmes, including the Institute Data Office, Brain Health Portfolio and HDR UK’s international activities, and plays a central role in shaping and driving the Institute’s AI strategy. She leads the creation of new research and infrastructure partnership initiatives, ensuring that HDR UK’s approach is coherent and aligned with national priorities. She oversees the delivery of complex multi-stakeholder programmes, ensuring they meet HDR UK’s scientific, technical and ethical standards, and provides strategic support across the organisation to help teams navigate a fast‑moving landscape and manage organisational change effectively.
She builds strong relationships with funders, policymakers, academic partners, the NHS, industry and patient groups, acting as a spokesperson for HDR UK’s mission and values. She also contributes to organisational development, governance and operational alignment, working with senior colleagues to promote strategically aligned delivery, good research practice, team science and a positive research culture.
Rhos joined HDR UK from the Medical Research Council, where she shaped the creation of HDR UK and led work spanning data science strategy, cancer research, advanced microscopy and skills programmes. She has also worked in the medical charity sector and holds a PhD in molecular virology.
