Kathy Evans

Dr. Kathy Evans is a Research Professor at the University of Edinburgh's Centre for Genomic and Experimental Medicine, where she leads a research group focused on neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders. Her qualifications include a BSc in Biological Sciences (Genetics) and PhD from the University of Edinburgh, where she mapped a schizophrenia-linked chromosomal translocation. She previously contributed to the Human Genome Project at the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute.

Research Focus

Evans' research integrates data analytics and laboratory techniques to investigate mechanisms of neurodegenerative (e.g., Alzheimer's) and psychiatric disorders (e.g., depression). Her work centers on:

• Functional analysis of mutations using CRISPR/Cas9-edited iPSC-derived neuronal lines
• Phenotype-based high-throughput drug screening for Alzheimer's
• Epigenome-wide analyses of population cohorts like Generation Scotland
• Investigating roles of cellular stress, DNA damage, and the sortilin gene family

Research Trends

Recent publications demonstrate her group's focus on neurodegeneration mechanisms (particularly Alzheimer's), DNA damage in neuronal cells, epigenome-wide association studies for psychiatric disorders, and biomarker discovery. Her team employs advanced techniques including genome editing, iPSC differentiation, omics analyses, and phenotypic drug screening.

Funding and Leadership

Current funders include Alzheimer's Research UK, Scottish Executive Chief Scientist Office, Tenovus Scotland, and Wellcome Trust. Evans serves as CGEM Post-Graduate Convenor, supervising Honours, MSc and PhD students including Kevin Carr and Eleanor Stamp. She collaborates widely with institutions including King's College London, Aarhus University, and Exeter University.