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The Susan Marmor Prize, established by donor Trevor Leigh (EAS80) in memory of UEA graduate Susan Marmor (SOC78) who passed away from a brain tumour, honours outstanding research within the MRes in Clinical Science programme at Norwich Medical School, with a focus on brain health and dementia.
This prestigious award is given to the student who achieves the highest dissertation score in a topic related to brain health, dementia, or cognitive neuroscience, selected from the Cognitive Neuroscience MSc or MRes Health Research cohorts.
This prize commemorates Susan’s legacy and supports emerging researchers as they progress in their academic and professional journeys. Norwich Medical School is home to one of the UK’s most dynamic centres for clinical research, fostering innovation and producing internationally recognised work. The MRes programme provides students with rigorous academic training, hands-on research experience, and opportunities to contribute to meaningful clinical advancements.
“Susan Marmor’s passion for understanding how things worked, and communication skills left a lasting impact. This prize is a way to support the next generation of researchers in her name, ensuring that their work continues to push the boundaries of medical science.” Trevor Leigh, on his motivation for establishing the prize in memory of his fellow UEA graduate, Susan Marmor.
This year, the inaugural Susan Marmor Prize was awarded to Darshan Huraliganganahalli Balaramegowda for achieving the highest dissertation score. Darshan, who completed a Doctor of Pharmacy in India, was drawn to UEA’s research-driven environment and strong faculty, which he felt were the perfect fit for his career aspirations in pharmaceutical research. We spoke with Darshan about his experience at UEA and what this recognition means to him.
What does it mean to you to be the first recipient of the Susan Marmor Prize?
It’s a huge honour and a milestone in my academic journey. Coming from a small farming village in India, winning this award is incredibly meaningful for me and my family. The support from Trevor Leigh and Paul Marmor has been truly encouraging, and this recognition has strengthened my resolve to pursue a PhD and contribute further to clinical research.
“Receiving this award is not just personal recognition - it motivates me to push forward in my research and inspires me to make a lasting impact in the field.”
Darshan Huraliganganahalli Balaramegowda
Can you share a bit about your dissertation?
My research examined the link between fluoroquinolone antibiotics and psychiatric side effects, such as suicidal ideation and self-injury, using FDA adverse event reports. I also conducted a literature review on the risks of aortic aneurysm linked to these antibiotics. This work highlights the importance of pharmacovigilance, which involves monitoring the safety of medications in public health.
How has the MRes Clinical Science programme shaped your academic and career goals?
UEA’s MRes programme has given me invaluable research skills and exposure to high-level clinical studies. Courses in quantitative methods, research ethics, and governance have provided a strong foundation, while independent research strengthened my ability to manage complex projects. Networking opportunities and mentorship have also been crucial in shaping my career aspirations.
“Awards like the Susan Marmor Prize validate the dedication and talent of our students while recognising the importance of their research. They provide a stepping stone for future careers and help foster a culture of academic excellence.”
“Awards like the Susan Marmor Prize validate the dedication and talent of our students while recognising the importance of their research. They provide a stepping stone for future careers and help foster a culture of academic excellence.”
Professor Yoon Loke, Darshan’s mentor
How did Professor Yoon Loke’s mentorship contribute to your success?
His mentorship not only shaped my research but also gave me confidence in my abilities. He helped me refine my research topic, navigate complex statistical analyses, and provided constant feedback that strengthened my dissertation.
“Great mentorship is about more than just guidance—it’s about empowering students to navigate challenges with confidence.”
Professor Yoon Loke
What advice would you give to other students pursuing research?
Stay curious, work hard, and don’t be afraid to ask for guidance. Finding a strong mentor and immersing yourself in research opportunities can open doors to remarkable achievements.
The Susan Marmor Prize acknowledges academic excellence and supports students in overcoming financial barriers to further research, ensuring that bright minds like Darshan’s can continue to advance in their fields.
Paul Marmor, Susan’s brother, reflects on the profound, and personal, impact of the prize:
“At a time when so many students are facing such financial hardship, it is wonderful that our prize, set up in memory of my sister Susan, can be of help and celebrate the academic successes of brilliant MRes students, like Darshan.”
In memory of Susan Marmor, we are deeply grateful to Trevor Leigh for his generous donation, which, in Trevor’s words, has given him a significant sense of fulfilment:
“It’s incredibly rewarding to know that this prize can support students like Darshan, helping them take the next step in their careers. I hope it continues to encourage future generations of researchers to push boundaries and ask important questions.”
If you're considering supporting UEA or want to learn more about how you can contribute to pioneering research, please do get in touch with a member of our team.
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Susan Marmor Prize winner Darshan Huraliganganahalli Balaramegowda (left) and his mentor, Professor Yoon Loke.
Susan Marmor Prize winner Darshan Huraliganganahalli Balaramegowda (left) and his mentor, Professor Yoon Loke.
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Susan Marmor Prize winner Darshan Huraliganganahalli Balaramegowda (right), with his mentor, Professor Yoon Loke (centre), and one of Darshan’s friends.
Susan Marmor Prize winner Darshan Huraliganganahalli Balaramegowda (right), with his mentor, Professor Yoon Loke (centre), and one of Darshan’s friends.
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Thank you to Trevor Leigh for sharing this photo of UEA students in the 1970s. Sue Marmor is pictured standing on the right-hand side.
Thank you to Trevor Leigh for sharing this photo of UEA students in the 1970s. Sue Marmor is pictured standing on the right-hand side.