Professor Wiebke Arlt, Director of the LMS and Professor of Transdisciplinary Medicine at Imperial College London, officially took up the presidency at the ESE’s Annual General Meeting during the Joint Congress of the European Society of Endocrinology and the European Society for Paediatric Endocrinology in Copenhagen. This global event brought together more than 7,500 delegates from over 100 countries, reflecting the impact and importance of ESE and its leadership on the world stage.

A Vision for Endocrinology 

Wiebke’s presidential appointment reflects her outstanding contributions to research, clinical innovation and advocacy for diversity and inclusion within her field. Since joining LMS in 2023, Wiebke has led the institute’s mission to translate fundamental discovery science into experimental medicine, fostering an environment where discovery scientists and clinician scientists work side by side and championing a ‘Team Science’ approach to research. Wiebke said “I am delighted to take on the presidency as a clinician scientist from the UK – no better time to show that the UK is part of Europe and European progress in science and healthcare.” 

At the LMS, Wiebke’s pioneering discovery science explores the role of steroids in health and disease and she and her team have made significant advances in understanding polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Her work focuses on understanding the mechanisms of androgen excess and its metabolic consequences which may provide new approaches to diagnosis and treatment for people with PCOS. 

Championing Diversity and Early Career Development 

Wiebke champions integrated clinician scientist development and transdisciplinary training, strengthening the partnership between the LMS and Imperial College London, and her leadership has been instrumental in establishing new, inclusive fellowship programmes for researchers of Black heritage to promote a more inclusive research culture. She has successfully expanded the LMS clinician scientist training scheme, the Chain Florey Programme, supporting the next generation of scientific leaders. 

A central theme of Wiebke’s presidency is the promotion of diversity, equity and inclusion within the ESE and the wider scientific community. She has played a key role in launching initiatives such as the European Women in Endocrinology (EUWIN) group and supporting the ESE Young Endocrinologists & Scientists (EYES) committee, ensuring vital platforms for mentorship and professional growth. 

Wiebke’s vision for the ESE presidency includes proactive outreach to basic scientists, industry partners and early career researchers, ensuring that the ESE remains a vibrant and inclusive community. Her leadership has already promoted the increasing participation of women and early career scientists throughout the Society’s activities and governance. 

Looking Ahead 

Wiebke’s presidency comes at a pivotal time for the ESE as it continues to expand its educational, research and policy initiatives across Europe and beyond. Her priorities include strengthening the integration of basic, clinical and translational science, and ensuring that the Society provides meaningful support and opportunities for all its members. 

We are delighted to congratulate Wiebke on this exceptional achievement which stands as a powerful example of leadership, innovation, and commitment to equality in science. We look forward to supporting Wiebke as she leads the European endocrinology community into a new era of collaboration and discovery.