Preston genomics scientist recognised in national awards

A Preston scientist has been recognised as part of a national development programme for women in science and engineering.

Deborah Lakeland, Specialist Biomedical Scientist in Molecular Pathology and Genomics at Lancashire Teaching Hospitals, has been awarded the role of Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) Women in Science and Engineering (WISE) Fellow for 2019/2020.

The programme, which aims to build the next generation of leaders within healthcare science across the NHS, brings together 32 female healthcare professionals from all over the country.

The role will enable Deborah to gain leadership experience, develop support networks, and deliver her ground-breaking project on genomics, which has already been piloted in local schools.

Deborah said: “I am thrilled to have been selected and it’s an incredible honour to receive this award.

“I hope that I will reach my fullest potential by delivering my genomics dream nationally and provide inspiration to other women working as healthcare scientists.

“As part of the programme, my impactful project will centre on expanding the successful genomics education pilot delivered in local primary schools by Preston North End Community and Education Trust.”

The pilot has enabled educators from Preston North End Community and Education Trust to teach children about the basics of the rapidly developing field of genomics.

Genomic medicine uses an individual’s DNA to predict, prevent, and more accurately diagnose disease through personalised treatment. Sequencing the genome is a real game changer for the NHS and one of the most important medical advances of the past 70 years.

Deborah said: “Future health interventions will be informed by genomics, so it is important to increase public awareness and understanding through education.

“I hope to continue the success of this programme, which I believe could make a real impact globally.”

Kevin Abbott, Chairman of PNE Community Trust and Director of Finance at PNE Football Club said: “I am delighted to congratulate Deborah on her selection to be part of the Chief Scientific Officer’s WISE programme.

“This education programme, taking genomic medicine into our local schools and teaching young people that they can, at a cellular level, improve their life chances is indeed ground breaking.

“We are excited by this partnership and Deborah’s inclusion in the CSOWISE Programme underpins how important this is both locally and nationally.”

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