Four researchers in the School of Biological Sciences have been recognised for their outstanding contributions to science. Professor Anne Willis has been elected Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences. Professor Beverley Glover, Professor Uta Paszkowski and Professor Ashley Moffett have been elected Fellows of the Royal Society.
These prestigious fellowships honour individuals who have made exceptional advances in their fields and represent some of the highest accolades in UK and international research.
Professor Jon Simons, Head of the School of Biological Sciences said,
“My warmest congratulations to this year’s elected Fellows. This recognition reflects not only their outstanding contributions to research and innovation, but also a shared commitment to advancing knowledge for the benefit of society. It is particularly powerful to see such exceptional women acknowledged this year, whose talent and leadership span disciplines, and I know their achievements will inspire the next generation of scientists.”
New Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences
Professor Anne Willis FMedSci
Anne Willis is Director of the MRC Toxicology Unit. Her election to the Fellowship is in recognition of her research into understanding the 'off target' effects of cutting-edge treatments, such as RNA therapies, and working on models to predict potential side effects of new medicines. Anne’s work will ensure that the medicines of the future are not only groundbreaking, but safe-by-design for the patients who rely on them.
New Fellows of the Royal Society
Professor Beverley Glover FRS
Beverley Glover is Director of the Cambridge University Botanic Garden and Professor of Plant Systematics and Evolution in the Department of Plant Sciences. Her research focuses on the development of floral features which enhance pollination success. Beverley has transformed how we understand the evolution of flowering plants, revealing the intricate mechanisms that drive successful pollination.
Professor Uta Paszkowski FRS
Uta Paszkowski is Acting Director of the Crop Science Centre and Professor of Plant Molecular Genetics in the Department of Plant Sciences. Her research investigates how cereal crops such as rice and maize communicate and exchange nutrients with beneficial soil fungi to improve agricultural sustainability. Uta’s work is helping to unlock nature’s own solutions to support a more sustainable future for global agriculture.
Professor Ashley Moffett CMG FMedSci FRS
Ashley Moffett is Emeritus Professor of Reproductive Immunology in the Department of Pathology. She is a leading international authority on the immunology of human reproduction. She is distinguished for a sustained programme of research that has defined the role of the innate immune system in placentation. This has transformed our understanding of normal and abnormal pregnancy, particularly of disorders such as pre-eclampsia.
Read more about this year’s Fellows: