Koushikk Ayyappan wins medical writing award

The principal aim of the John Potter Essay Prize is to celebrate and thereby promote clear and effective medical writing, and this year Koushikk was recognised for his clarity of expression in discussing the glymphatic system – a pathway through which the brain may clear waste during sleep. Many researchers contend that the function of the glymphatic system (or its failure to function) is linked to neurological diseases such as Alzheimer's, and in his paper Koushikk evaluated the historical and current methods used to measure the system’s function. 

Having discussed the strengths and limitations of different means of gauging glymphatic function, Koushikk's article establishes a framework from which researchers can select a technique. He also explores the potential for future methods to emerge that could advance the field of research. 

The article ties in with Koushikk's wider research interests:  ‘I'm particularly fascinated by neurodegenerative diseases, shaped by the great teaching at Christ Church from academics such as Dr Michael Kohl, Professor Stephanie Cragg and Professor Olaf Ansorge,' Koushikk said. ‘I also have a strong interest in drug development and surgical research.’

Responding to news of the award, Koushikk thanked his supervisor: ‘I'm very grateful to receive this prize. I couldn’t have done it without Dr Mootaz Salman's support and guidance – his mentorship made a real difference.’

Koushikk’s article can be read here.

The Christ Church community would like to congratulate Koushikk on this great achievement.