Keele University’s School of Medicine has been recognised as one of the best in Europe for rheumatology research.

The European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (EULAR) has awarded Keele the status of Centre of Excellence; an honour given to recognise the top research centres in European rheumatology.

The title, which is valid for five years, honours Keele’s outstanding links with NHS partners and the high-quality research into musculoskeletal conditions conducted by its academics, who are actively involved in pioneering research into conditions like back pain and arthritis.

The EULAR Centres of Excellence in Rheumatology scheme is a register which aims to bring together the top rheumatology research centres in Europe, and only those who have the highest levels of high-impact research are successful in gaining Centre of Excellence status.

Professor Christian Mallen, Head of Keele’s School of Medicine said: “I’m delighted that our excellence in rheumatology research has been recognised by EULAR. This is a real tribute to all those clinicians, academics and importantly patient partners who have invested so much in establishing Keele as a world leading this field.”