Dr Mark Ellul

Dr Mark Ellul MA MBBChir MRCP(UK)

My first encounter with encephalitis came partway through my medical school training, when I was helping to look after a young girl with autoimmune encephalitis. I saw first-hand the profound effect of the condition on the patient and her family. Seeing her receive the treatment she needed and slowly recovering was a life-changing experience for me. This influenced my decision to choose neurology as a speciality, and I started my research career in the field of encephalitis.

After I’d completed medical school and basic training I relocated to Liverpool in 2013 as a research fellow in neurology. Since then I’ve worked on improving the diagnosis of encephalitis through laboratory research and setting up clinical trials to improve treatment of the condition. I’ve also worked in South America on the neurological effects of viruses including Zika.

I met Encephalitis International through our joint efforts in clinical trials and understanding the narratives and priorities of people affected by encephalitis. I was deeply impressed by the whole team fighting for everyone affected by the condition, and making sure encephalitis receives the attention it deserves, both from the public and the medical profession. It was a great honour to join the board of trustees.

When not in the lab or clinic I am a proud dad, reader of fiction and poetry, and a keen musician, playing the piano, organ and singing in choirs.