Professor Anne Willis, a pioneering expert in cancer cell biology, received the only BBSRC Professorial Fellowship of 2008, to help solve one of the mysteries of cell biology. The £750,000 award will allow her to research full-time into how cells re-programme themselves to repair damage to their DNA from stresses such as UV radiation.
Professor Willis said: “This award will help us expand and focus the areas of both cancer research and cell biology in Nottingham to produce an internationally regarded centre of excellence.”
Professor Nigel Brown, BBSRC Director of Science & Technology, said:
"BBSRC Professorial Fellowships are given to world-class bioscientists who can demonstrate a track record of developing new and innovative directions of research and who have the potential to open dramatic and exciting new areas of work. BBSRC only awards one or two Professorial Fellowships each year. Professor Willis receives the only award we are making in 2008.
"Professor Willis has impressive drive and determination. Her plans to establish a centre of excellence will further our understanding, at a fundamental and strategic level, of cellular responses to stress and strengthen the UK's leading global role in this area of research."
Posted on Thursday 23rd October 2008