Simon Lowes, Consultant Breast Radiologist at the Gateshead Breast Unit, has been named the Royal College of Radiologists (RCR) Roentgen Professor for 2026. The Royal College of Radiologists is the national body of clinical radiologists and clinical oncologists, working with its members to improve standards of medical practice through education, research and training.
This national title is a significant honour, and it marks the first time a radiologist from the North East has been awarded the professorship. Alongside his clinical role, Simon is also Honorary Clinical Senior Lecturer at Newcastle University, Research Lead for the School of Radiology across the North East and North Cumbria, and has a number of nationally-appointed roles including executive committee officer of the British Society of Breast Radiology and membership of the NICE breast cancer committee, RCR Academic Committee and NIHR Imaging Group.
The Roentgen Professorship is awarded by the RCR to support radiologists in promoting research and academic activity across the UK. Named after Wilhelm Roentgen, who discovered X-rays, the professorship involves delivering lectures and workshops to radiology trainees around the country.
Simon Lowes said: “To be awarded the Roentgen Professorship from the Royal College of Radiologists is a great honour and privilege for me. This is the first time in its history that it has been awarded to a radiologist in our region, which makes it extra special. This is also a great opportunity to enhance the Trust’s visibility across the country as I engage in the professorship’s activities, and I am hugely grateful for the Trust’s support during the application process and in taking up the post.”
Carmen Howey, Group Medical Director at Gateshead Health, said: “I’d like to recognise and congratulate Simon Lowes, who has been appointed as The Royal College of Radiologists Roentgen Professor from January 2026. This is a national honour and the first time it’s been awarded to a radiologist in the North East. It’s a brilliant achievement and well deserved.”