Philippa Saunders

I am a biomedical scientist, Professor of Reproductive Steroids and Director of Postgraduate Research Training for the College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine at the University of Edinburgh. My research activities are focussed on explaining the roles played by oestrogens, androgens and their receptors in the women’s health.  Current projects are exploring the role of intracrinology in endometrial receptivity, the aetiology of the neuroinflammatory disorder endometriosis, the molecular mechanisms responsible for endometrial repair and the origins of endometrial cancers. The studies use a wide range of molecular, cellular and animal models and are focused on developing new therapeutic interventions for chronic reproductive disorders such as endometriosis.

I am passionate about the need to invest in and support the next generation of researchers and have been involved in training more than 50 postgraduate PhD and MSc students. As head of postgraduate training in my College I am responsible for overseeing development of strategies to support clinical and non-clinical trainees and early career researchers.

I was elected a Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences in 2012. I have engaged in Academy initiatives to nurture the careers of medical researchers as a member of the Academic Careers Committee, a member of the Team Science Working Group, and a SUSTAIN mentor. Since June 2016, I have been elected by the Academy Council as the new Registrar.