Mesothelioma UK, the national asbestos-related cancer charity, has appointed Dr Hannah Moody as its new Chief Executive. Hannah joins the charity from Breast Cancer UK and brings widespread experience in scientific and clinical research, including extensive mesothelioma studies. In her new role, she will help to drive the charity to achieve its long-term vision of raising awareness, optimising mesothelioma care, improving outcomes and experience, and increasing research and audit activity.
Hannah takes over from outgoing Mesothelioma UK Chief Executive and charity founder, Liz Darlison. Liz plans to continue practicing as a Nurse Consultant at the University Hospitals of Leicester and will continue to support the charity for as long as she is needed.
Prior to joining Mesothelioma UK, Hannah was Director of Research and Engagement at the breast cancer prevention-focused charity, Breast Cancer UK. She led and developed the directorate, focused on scientific research, health education and public affairs programmes. Previously, Hannah was Assistant Professor in Cell and Molecular Biology at the Institute of Cancer Therapeutics (ICT), University of Bradford. Her research group focused on translational cancer biology, with projects focused mainly on malignant mesothelioma.
Hannah started her studies reading Diagnostic Radiography but switched to a BSc in Biological Sciences at Teesside University as she wanted to understand the science behind the pathologies she was seeing through the radiology department. She went on to complete a PhD in Medical Sciences with Hull York Medical School, specifically focusing on the role of microRNA in chemoresistance of the asbestos-related cancer, malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM).
She also held postdoctoral positions with the Department of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Hull and the Joint Centre for Cancer Studies with Hull York Medical School including a project award to further investigate the mechanisms behind chemoresistance in mesothelioma.
Commenting on her new role, Hannah said: “I was drawn to this role by my absolute passion for improving outcomes for people affected by mesothelioma. With a background in mesothelioma research and extensive experience in charity leadership, I am incredibly proud to be joining this exceptional organisation at such an important time.
“Mesothelioma is unique among cancers in that we know what causes it, yet there is still so much we do not understand. While significant progress has been made in recent years, far too many questions remain unanswered. For too long, mesothelioma has been underfunded and underserved, and there is an urgent need for greater investment, research, and national focus to drive meaningful change for patients and their families.
“A key priority within the charity’s strategy is to strengthen and expand our network of Clinical Nurse Specialists across the UK. These nurses play a vital role in supporting patients, and we are committed to helping them connect more closely with one another, with cancer alliances, patients, and the wider mesothelioma community. We also want to continue to support specialist Multi-Disciplinary Team networks and the pioneering work of the Mesothelioma UK Research Centre at the University of Sheffield.
“Building strong relationships across these communities and networks will be essential to achieving lasting progress. Together with our dedicated operations team, we will continue to be a powerful voice for patients, campaigning tirelessly and working collaboratively to improve outcomes, advance research, and ensure that everyone affected by mesothelioma receives the support and care they deserve.”
Liz Darlison added: “I worked closely with the charity’s senior leadership team and board of trustees to create a succession plan that will streamline the handover. It is an exciting time for the charity; change brings new ideas and expertise. Mesothelioma UK has a fabulous operational team, a clear vision and a solid and supportive board, and Hannah is a perfect fit to work with them all and lead the charity through the next stage of its development.”
Published on Monday 14th September 2026