Philippa was part of the John Innes Centre’s community for many years, joining the Uauy group as a PhD student in 2010. She was a fantastic scientist, collaborator and mentor, and a close friend
to many.

After completing her PhD she secured a BBSRC Future Leader Fellowship and in 2018 established an independent research group at the University of Birmingham, before returning to us as a Group Leader in 2021.

In 2022, Philippa received the President’s Medal Award from The Society of Experimental Biology, which honours outstanding early-career scientists, and in 2025 the Carlotta Award, which recognises the pioneering work of women scientists under the age of 40 working on the genetics and genomics of wheat. Recently Philippa was also named an Honorary Associate Professor at the University of East Anglia.

Philippa’s scientific work transformed our ability to understand and work with the highly complex wheat genome. She developed and applied innovative approaches to dissect gene function within polyploid wheat, helping identify genes underpinning important agronomic traits including nutritional quality.

Through both her discoveries and her collaborative ethos, Philippa played a central role in advancing wheat genetics and in accelerating the translation of fundamental science into tools and knowledge for global food security.

Professor Cristóbal Uauy, Director of the John Innes Centre, said: “Philippa was such an inspiring person, who always found time to support others. She was kind-hearted and had an unwavering drive to excel in everything she did. Through her science and mentorship she touched so many lives, in so many ways. The JIC and science community mourns the loss of our dear friend and colleague.”

Our thoughts continue to be with her family, friends and the many staff and alumni who have worked with Philippa over the years. She will be remembered not only for her exceptional science, but for the generosity, integrity and inspiration that defined her life and work.