Robert Winston

Former Professor of Science & Society at Imperial College London, Former President of the British Association for the Advancement of Science & Host of ‘The Human Body’

Robert Winston’s Biography:

Robert Winston is one of Britain’s most respected scientists, doctors and broadcasters, internationally recognised for his pioneering work in fertility treatment, reproductive medicine and human genetics. Over a career that has combined groundbreaking scientific achievement with an exceptional ability to communicate complex ideas to public audiences, he has become a trusted voice on science, medicine and society. Known to millions through his acclaimed television programmes and public speaking engagements, Robert has consistently bridged the gap between cutting-edge research and everyday understanding. His unique combination of medical expertise, scientific innovation and engaging storytelling makes him a highly sought-after keynote speaker for conferences, corporate events and educational forums.

Robert studied medicine before embarking on a distinguished career in reproductive science and gynaecology. After joining Hammersmith Hospital as a registrar and Wellcome Research Fellow, he developed a strong research foundation that led to international appointments, including Associate Professor at the Catholic University of Leuven and Scientific Advisor to the World Health Organisation’s human reproduction programme. He later joined the Royal Postgraduate Medical School as a Consultant and Reader before becoming Professor of Gynaecology at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. His medical achievements include performing the world’s first fallopian tubal transplant and pioneering pre implantation genetic diagnosis alongside Alan Handyside, a breakthrough that enabled embryos to be screened for serious genetic diseases. Robert subsequently served as Director of NHS Research and Development at Hammersmith Hospitals Trust, Dean of the Institute of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Chancellor of Sheffield Hallam University, President of the British Association for the Advancement of Science and Professor of Science and Society at Imperial College London, where he also conducted research into male germ cell stem cells and genetic modification with Carol Readhead.

Alongside his scientific career, Robert has become one of Britain’s most recognisable media figures. Through acclaimed television series including ‘The Human Body’, ‘Human Instinct’, ‘Child of Our Time’ and ‘Superhuman’, he has brought scientific discovery to audiences around the world. His ability to explain complex subjects with clarity, warmth and authority has earned widespread public respect and numerous honours. In 2024, he further demonstrated his commitment to public engagement by headlining the Haverhill Science Festival, continuing a long tradition of inspiring audiences through accessible and thought-provoking discussions about science, innovation and human potential.

Why Hire Robert Winston?

Robert’s influence extends beyond research and broadcasting. He transformed the Women for Women Appeal into the Genesis Research Trust, helping to raise more than £80 million for research into reproductive diseases. He has authored numerous bestselling books on science, medicine, education and human development, while also serving in prominent leadership positions across academia, healthcare and charitable organisations. Event organisers value Robert not only for his extraordinary achievements but also for his ability to connect scientific progress with real-world challenges. His keynote presentations combine insight, evidence and engaging personal experience, leaving audiences informed, inspired and equipped with a deeper understanding of the forces shaping the future.

Robert Winston’s Career Highlights:

Here are some of the key milestones that define Robert Winston’s remarkable career:

  • 2024 – Headlined the Haverhill Science Festival
  • 2004 – Appointed Professor of Science & Society at Imperial College London
  • 2004 – Researched male germ cell stem cells & genetic modification with Carol Readhead at Imperial College London
  • 2004 – Served as President of the British Association for the Advancement of Science
  • 2001 – Served as Chancellor of Sheffield Hallam University.
  • 1997 – Renamed the Women-for-Women Appeal to Genesis Research Trust, raising over £80 million for reproductive disease research
  • 1997 – Became Dean of the Institute of Obstetrics & Gynaecology
  • 1994 – Served as the Director of NHS Research & Development at Hammersmith Hospitals Trust
  • 1990 – Pioneered pre-implantation genetic diagnosis with Alan Handyside, enabling embryo screening for genetic diseases
  • 1980 – Became Professor of Gynaecology at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
  • 1979 – Performed the world’s first fallopian tubal transplant
  • 1977 – Joined the Royal Postgraduate Medical School as a Consultant & Reader
  • 1975 – Served as a Scientific Advisor to the World Health Organisation’s human reproduction programme
  • 1975 – Became an Associate Professor at the Catholic University of Leuven
  • 1970 – Joined Hammersmith Hospital as a registrar & Wellcome Research Fellow