Hugh obtained a first-class degree in cardiorespiratory physiology before graduating from the Middlesex Hospital Medical School in 1987. He completed training in General Internal Medicine, Cardiology and Intensive Care Medicine and now practises as a consultant intensivist in North London. He obtained his MDRes in 1997, and as Professor of Intensive Care Medicine at UCL, now directs the Centre for Human Health and Performance there. He has published over 500 papers. He sits on the Council of the UK Intensive Care Society, has contributed to multiple national Covid guidelines, and chairs the National Emergency Covid Critical Care Committee.