Professor Karen Bloor Appointed as New Head of CHE

News

Posted on Friday 23 January 2026

Professor Karen Bloor will succeed Professor Mark Sculpher as Head of CHE.

The Centre for Health Economics (CHE) at the University of York is pleased to announce the appointment of Professor Karen Bloor as its new Head of Department, effective from October 2026. She succeeds Professor Mark Sculpher, who concludes his period as Head of School after five years leadership in CHE.

Mark took over shortly after the challenges of COVID and has focused on ensuring CHE provides a supportive and productive research environment. Key CHE achievements over this period include funding for four NIHR-funded policy research units, and Health Foundation funding for the REAL Supply Research Unit.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my 5 years as CHE’s Head of Department. Celebrating CHE’s 40th birthday in 2023 was a special milestone for the Centre, and policy-relevant health economics research remains as important now as it ever has been. I am delighted that Karen will be taking over the headship role, and she will have my full support. As I have done, she will benefit from working with excellent colleagues in the Centre”.

Professor Bloor brings extensive experience in health economics research, policy engagement and academic leadership, and has been closely involved with CHE for many years. Her appointment marks an important moment for CHE as it continues to strengthen its national and international policy-relevant research in health economics.

Commenting on her appointment, Professor Karen Bloor said:

“I feel honoured to be appointed as CHE’s next head of department. I started my research career in CHE, and I am excited to be returning. I am very much looking forward to working with CHE researchers and supporting their continued innovative and influential research”.

CHE extends its sincere thanks to Professor Sculpher for his leadership and contributions and looks forward to welcoming Professor Bloor.