Janet Allen trained as a physician and practised in academic medical centres. Following post-doctoral training at Harvard Medical School, Dr Allen gained faculty positions at the University of Cambridge and appointed to the Chair of Molecular Medicine at University of Glasgow. Dr Allen moved to senior management posts in Parke Davis and then Pfizer. Since 2002, Dr Allen has been involved in developing research strategies for an academic research institute and for the BBSRC. Since 2012, Dr Allen joined the Cystic Fibrosis Trust where she now holds the post of Director of Strategic Innovation.