Fiona Watt

Fiona Watt is a Professor (Herchel Smith Professor of Molecular Genetics, Cambridge University, until 2012) and currently serves as Director of the Centre for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine at King’s College London School of Medicine. She holds affiliations with institutions such as the Wellcome Trust Centre for Stem Cell Research and St John’s College, Cambridge. Her career spans leadership roles in stem cell biology, cancer research, and epidermal biology, with impactful contributions to both academic and organizational spheres.

Education: Fiona Watt earned a D.Phil. in Pathology from the University of Oxford (1979), an M.Sc. from Cambridge University (1979), and a B.A. in Natural Sciences from Cambridge (1976).

Research focuses on epidermis biology, stem cell regulation, and cancer mechanisms. Her work bridges basic science and translational research, particularly in understanding how stem cells contribute to tissue regeneration and disease.

Awards and Recognition:

• Member of the Royal Society (2003)
• Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences (2000)
• ASCB Women in Cell Biology Senior Award (2008)

Leadership includes roles as President of the International Society for Stem Cell Research (2008) and the British Society for Cell Biology (1999–2006). She directs the King’s Centre for Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine, fostering interdisciplinary research.