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Biography
Richard Lilford is professor of public health at Warwick University and director of the Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care (CLAHRC) in the West Midlands. His career has been remarkably varied, with chairs at three different universities in obstetrics and gynaecology, clinical epidemiology, and now public health, as well as a spell as regional director and clinical trials adviser for the Department of Health. His broad knowledge makes his regular blogs on behalf of CLAHRC West Midlands a treat for those lucky or clever enough to get on the mailing list.
What was your earliest ambition?
To be a doctor, from age 10. I liked the idea of being able to make a diagnosis and then cure someone.
Who has been your biggest inspiration?
My mother, who told me that it's better to be bullied than to be ignored.
What was the worst mistake in your career?
Joining the civil service. It's a great institution, but I wasn't cut out to be "part of the machine."
What was your best career move?
Becoming a doctor. I miss not seeing patients in my current...