Professor Ann John OBE
A Swansea University academic has been appointed OBE in the King’s Birthday Honours list in recognition of her services to suicide prevention and digital innovation.
Professor Ann John of Swansea University Medical School is a world-leading expert in suicide prevention, self-harm research, and mental health data science.
A former GP, she is Principal Investigator and Co-Director of DATAMIND, the Health Data Research UK Hub for Mental Health Informatics Research, and Director of the National Centre for Suicide Prevention and Self-harm Research, which advises the Welsh Government.
Her research has advanced understanding of the causes and risk factors linked to suicide and self-harm, challenging long-held assumptions and widening the focus beyond specialist psychiatry into primary care and community settings. This work has helped shape national policy, informed frontline practice, and improved the way suicide is reported in the media.
She has also contributed to several major TV productions, including EastEnders, Coronation Street, and the BBC’s This Is Going to Hurt, helping to ensure the responsible portrayal of suicidal behaviours.
By bringing research findings to the public and organisations across health and education, Professor John has helped increase awareness and reduce stigma around mental health and self-harm. Through her work in research, policy, and public engagement, she has shown how academic expertise can drive meaningful change and deliver lasting benefits for society.
Professor John also plays a leading role in advancing secure, privacy-preserving access to mental health data for research and innovation. She works collaboratively with NHS partners, policymakers, researchers, and people with lived experience to ensure that data-driven innovation delivers meaningful benefits for patients and communities.
Earlier this year, Professor John was elected to the Academy of Medical Sciences in recognition of her outstanding contribution to medical science.
On being appointed OBE, Professor John said: “I am deeply honoured and delighted to receive this award. It reflects the importance of suicide prevention and the power of digital innovation, research and collaboration to make a real difference to people's lives.
“I have been privileged to work with exceptional colleagues, partners and communities, and I share this honour with everyone who has contributed to that work over many years.”
Professor John will receive her insignia at an investiture later this year.