Keele researcher recognised as Researcher of the Year by national professional body

A Keele University researcher has been recognised for his contribution to prosthetics and orthotics research with a prestigious national award. 

Dr Saeed Forghany, an NIHR-funded Research Fellow at Keele, has been named Researcher of the Year at the BAPO P&O Awards 2026, organised by the British Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists (BAPO). 

The award recognises research that strengthens the evidence base within the prosthetics and orthotics profession and helps translate research findings into improvements in clinical practice and patient care. 

At Keele, Saeed’s work within the School of Allied Health Professions and Pharmacy focuses on using artificial intelligence and advanced biostatistics to develop predictive approaches to diabetes-related foot care. His research is investigating risk factors for diabetic foot ulceration and how routinely collected clinical and health data could be used to support more dynamic and personalised approaches to risk prediction and prevention. 

Saeed said: “I am incredibly honoured to receive the BAPO Researcher of the Year Award. Research has always been central to my professional life, but for me its greatest value is in improving clinical decision-making and, ultimately, patient care. 

“I am particularly grateful to Keele University and the NIHR for supporting me and giving me the opportunity to develop my research in diabetes-related foot disease, data science and predictive modelling.” 

A key part of Saeed’s work at Keele has been his collaboration with Professor Chris Nester, whose mentorship has supported the development of his research and wider clinical-academic career. He was also supported by Professor Danielle van der Windt in Keele’s School of Medicine. 

Saeed added: “I would especially like to thank Professor Chris Nester for his mentorship, encouragement and continued support. His guidance has been hugely influential in developing my research at Keele and in helping me bring together my clinical experience with new approaches in data science and health research. 

“Receiving this recognition from my own profession is particularly meaningful and motivates me to continue building stronger links between research, technology and everyday clinical practice.” 

Alongside his role at Keele, Saeed is a Senior Orthotist and Gait Analyst at London Orthotic Consultancy and completed his PhD at University of Salford. 

His wider research interests span diabetic foot disease, gait and movement analysis, paediatric and adult orthotics, scoliosis bracing, cerebral palsy, and the evaluation of emerging orthotic and rehabilitation technologies. 

Throughout his career, Saeed has combined clinical practice with research and education. Before taking up his current roles, he spent many years working in academia, including as Professor of Orthotics and Biomechanics at Isfahan University of Medical Sciences. 

Saeed said: “I have been very fortunate to work with excellent colleagues and mentors at Keele and throughout my career. I hope to continue building stronger links between research, technology and everyday clinical practice.”