Catherine Abbott
Catherine Abbott, Lady Bird | |
|---|---|
| Alma mater | University of Reading |
| Occupation(s) | Molecular geneticist, professor |
| Years active | Post-1987–present |
| Employer | University of Edinburgh |
| Known for | Research on motor neuron disease and neurodevelopmental disorders |
Catherine Abbott, Lady Bird holds a professorship in molecular genetics at the University of Edinburgh.
Education
Abbott completed her BSc degree in 1983, followed by a PhD in biochemical genetics in 1987. Both qualifications were obtained through the University of Reading in conjunction with the Medical Research Council based at the Harwell facility.
Research
After earning her doctorate, Abbott pursued postdoctoral studies at University College London, focusing on molecular investigations of mouse models that simulate human diseases. Subsequently, she joined the Medical Research Council's human genetics unit in Edinburgh and secured a permanent academic position at the university.
Her research centers on a particular mouse model exhibiting early onset motor neuron disease, which is associated with mutations in the eEF1A2 gene. This gene is also connected to various neurodevelopmental disorders, including autism and epilepsy. Abbott's work seeks to elucidate why motor neurons are especially susceptible to stress and to create novel disease models that facilitate the discovery of potential therapeutic targets. Her laboratory employs gene editing technologies such as CRISPR/Cas Tools to investigate these genetic alterations.
In addition to her scientific endeavors, Abbott is a strong advocate for inclusivity within the scientific community, spearheading Athena SWAN programs at Edinburgh. She is affiliated with the British Neuroscience Association, participates on the funding committee for the National Centre for the Replacement, Refinement and Reduction of Animals in Research, and holds the position of Associate Editor for the ACS publication Chemical Neuroscience.