Dr James Rudd, Heart’s Digital Media Editor, interviewed Professor Peter Weissberg, Medical Director of the British Heart Foundation (BHF), in May 2016. As the largest independent funder of cardiovascular research in the UK (around £100 million annually), Peter has sage advice for young researchers considering a career in cardiovascular science. He looks back at some highlights from his 12 years at the BHF. Finally, Peter explains why there has never be en a better time to consider a career in cardiovascular research.