Edith researches the process that silences one of the two X chromosomes in females, which makes sure that genes on the X chromosome are only expressed once in both females and males. 

She was involved in deciphering when and how one of the X chromosomes is switched off in early development, finding that this is a dynamic process and that different mammals show many ways of initiating X chromosome inactivation.  

Using advanced sequencing techniques, Edith has also discovered how the inactive X chromosome is folded to keep genes silenced. 

As Edith’s lab showed that X chromosome inactivation is implicated in diseases like breast cancer, her work could help to better understand conditions that largely impact women.

Currently leading the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Edith will continue her work in X chromosome biology in her new lab at the Crick from summer 2025. 

Edith said: 

In an era when we are talking more and more about personalised medicine, it cannot be right that we still know so little about how the bodies of 50% of the population work, particularly in respect of epigenetics and molecular mechanisms. We have come a long way over the past few decades, but we still have a long way to go. Female biology is very different to that of a male, and we need to further understand the influence that sex hormones and sex chromosome have in disease. Only then can we truly say we are administering personalised treatment.

Edith joins 25 Royal Society Medal and Award winners this year. 

Sir Adrian Smith, President of the Royal Society said:

The scope of scientific knowledge and experience in this year’s line-up is amazing. These outstanding researchers, individuals and teams have contributed to our collective scientific endeavour and helped further our understanding of the world around us. 

I am proud to celebrate outstanding science and offer my congratulations to all the 2024 recipients of the Royal Society’s Medals and Awards.