Today, we’re thrilled to welcome Professor Tim Eisen to Gravity Encounters. As a Professor of Medical Oncology at the University of Cambridge and Franchise Head of GU Oncology at Roche, Tim’s career spans academia, clinical practice, industry, and patient advocacy. With over 200 peer-reviewed publications and groundbreaking contributions to cancer research, including pioneering VEGF Receptor inhibitors and identifying genetic lung cancer risk factors, he’s had a profound impact on the field. Beyond his scientific achievements, Tim has been instrumental in shaping cancer care, leading one of the largest kidney cancer practices in the UK, and working closely with charities like Macmillan Cancer Support. Today, we’ll explore the pivotal moments, challenges, and inspirations that have defined his extraordinary career.

Today, we’re excited to welcome Sarah Teichmann to Gravity Encounters.

As Professor of Stem Cell Biology at the University of Cambridge and Vice President for Translational Research at GSK, Sarah has had a profound impact on single-cell genomics, immunology, and translational medicine.

Previously, she held positions at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, the European Bioinformatics Institute, and the Wellcome Sanger Institute, where she led large-scale single-cell projects that have transformed our understanding of human health and disease.

Sarah has co-founded Transition Bio and EnsoCell Therapeutics, applying single-cell and spatial genomics technologies, AI, and machine learning to drive novel therapeutic discovery. In addition, she is co-founder and co-leader of the international Human Cell Atlas consortium, which aims to create comprehensive reference maps of every human cell type.

Today, we’ll explore Sarah’s journey, from working on the fundamental principles of cell biology to leading global consortia and companies at the forefront of translational research.

Hosts: Emily James and Claudia Smith

In this episode, we’re delighted to welcome Professor Anne Ferguson-Smith. Anne is a globally recognised expert in mammalian genetics and epigenetics, and currently holds the Arthur Balfour Professorship of Genetics at Cambridge. Her research investigates how epigenetic mechanisms regulate genome function, with a focus on how genetic and environmental factors influence development, health, and disease. She is also the Executive Chair of the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) and the former Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research and International Partnerships at the University of Cambridge.

In this conversation, Anne shares insights into her journey into science, the vital role of epigenetics in understanding complex biological systems, and her leadership path in research and policy.

This episode was recorded a while ago, so some of the information may be out of date.

Hosts: Laura Ryan and Laura Lungu

Link to YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hsNAyfQHSYE