Professor Debra Skene appointed Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences

Professor Debra Skene, Professor of Neuroendocrinology in the Section of Chronobiology at the University of Surrey, said:

“I am honoured to have been elected as a Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences and to be joining so many esteemed colleagues who are carrying out important research. It is particularly satisfying to be elected alongside proportionately the highest number of female scientists ever to join the Fellowship.” 

Professor Skene has over 30 years of research experience studying the human circadian timing system. She has pioneered studies on the spectral sensitivity of the human circadian axis, with her findings having helped deliver important advances in the treatment of circadian rhythm sleep/wake disorders and adaptation to shift work. 

Professor Paul Townsend, Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Executive Dean of the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences at the University of Surrey, said: 

“Congratulations to Professor Skene for being elected to the Academy, which is a testament to both her and her team for their ground-breaking research into the human circadian timing system. Their work plays a vital role in understanding sleep disorders and bolsters Surrey's position as a leader in chronobiology and sleep research.”

Professor Andrew Morris PMedSci, President of the Academy of Medical Sciences, said:

“It is an honour to welcome these brilliant minds to our Fellowship. Our new Fellows lead pioneering work in biomedical research and are driving remarkable improvements in healthcare. We look forward to working with them, and learning from them, in our quest to foster an open and progressive research environment that improves the health of people everywhere through excellence in medical science.  

“It is also welcoming to note that this year's cohort is our most diverse yet, in terms of gender, ethnicity and geography. While this progress is encouraging, we recognise that there is still much work to be done to truly diversify our Fellowship. We remain committed to our EDI goals and will continue to take meaningful steps to ensure our Fellowship reflects the rich diversity of the society we serve.”

The Academy of Medical Sciences is an independent, expert body which supports biomedical and health researchers with funding and career development opportunities. Its mission is to create an open and progressive research sector to improve patient health and benefit society. 

Notes to editors

• Professor Skene is available for interview, please contact mediarelations@surrey.ac.uk to arrange
• An image of Professor Skene is available here