This archive report was first published on 14 September 2019.
Breaking Boundaries in Science ¶
Edith Heard, a leading figure in the field of epigenetics, has made groundbreaking contributions to our understanding of genetics. Her work has been recognized globally, and she is now the head of the European Molecular Biology Laboratory, a prestigious scientific collaboration among 27 European countries.
Heard's journey in science began when she discovered biology at university, a moment she describes as a 'eureka' experience. She has since become a professor at the Collège de France and has received her bachelor's degree in genetics from Cambridge University's Emmanuel College and her doctorate in biochemistry from the Imperial Cancer Research Fund in London.
Heard's passion for science is not limited to her research. She is also committed to helping scientists who have been forced to flee their home countries due to conflict or war. Her organization, PAUSE, provides assistance to these scientists, allowing them to continue their work and contribute to the advancement of science.
In a recent interview, Heard spoke about the importance of creativity in science and how it can be sparked by challenging experiences. She also discussed her work on the Tara Oceans project, which aims to catalog plankton and other microscopic sea creatures, and how it has inspired her to think about the invisible side of life.
Heard's definition of success is not about personal achievement, but about allowing a new generation of science to happen. She believes that science should be accessible to everyone and that the data should be available for all to explore and discover new things.
As Heard looks to the future, she is committed to bridging molecular biology with ecology and understanding life in its natural environment. She is aware of the challenges facing her field, including the need to understand life in its natural context and the impact of pollution and climate change on biodiversity.
