Sanger scientist recognised by EMBO
Today (30 June), Wellcome Sanger Institute Group Leader, Dr Iñigo Martincorena has been elected as a member of the European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO) for his outstanding achievements and significant contributions to the life sciences. He will be among 71 new members – including 60 EMBO Members and 11 EMBO Associate Members – from across 23 countries.
Iñigo has been recognised for his pioneering contributions to the field of somatic evolution. His research focusses on understanding how cells mutate, compete and evolve as we age – a process known as somatic evolution. This phenomenon underpins cancer development and is believed to contribute to ageing and other diseases. He has developed innovative experimental and computational approaches to study mutation rates and selection in normal tissues, enabling discoveries that were previously not technically possible.
Using these approaches, Iñigo led the first large-scale study of somatic mutations in normal human skin, revealing that many cells carry cancer-associated mutations and form expanding clones. His work has since extended this phenomenon to other tissues and uncovered extensive variation in mutational processes and clonal selection across normal tissues and individuals, establishing fundamental principles linking somatic mutation, ageing and disease.
Building on these insights in normal tissues, his lab’s most recent work has shown that somatic mutations in immune cells may be a key driver of autoimmune disease, identifying previously hidden genetic changes that disrupt immune regulation.
In addition to his research, Iñigo co-founded Quotient Therapeutics to help translate insights from somatic mutation biology into new approaches for understanding and treating human disease.
“I am honoured to be elected as an EMBO Member. EMBO plays a vital role in promoting and funding research across Europe, and it is a privilege to join and contribute to this community. Our work on somatic evolution combines molecular biology, genomics and evolutionary biology to understand the extent and impact of somatic mutations in our tissues as we age – a fundamental part of human biology that had remained hidden until recently. It is wonderful to see this area of research recognised by EMBO. This is also a recognition to my team, mentors and close collaborators, who make this exciting journey of discovery possible and enjoyable every day.”
Iñigo Martincorena, Group Leader, Wellcome Sanger Institute
“It is a pleasure to welcome the new EMBO Members and Associate Members. Their election celebrates their achievements and creativity. By contributing their unique perspectives and experiences, they will greatly strengthen the network of leading life scientists who are shaping the field.”
Fiona Watt, EMBO Director
More information
Inigo will be formally welcomed and celebrated at the EMBO Members’ Meeting in Heidelberg, Germany, from 30 September to 2 October 2026.
A directory listing all members with affiliations and subject areas is available online: https://people.embo.org/
For more information, please read EMBO’s announcement: https://www.embo.org/press-releases/seventy-one-leading-scientists-elected-to-the-embo-membership/
About EMBO
EMBO stands for excellence in life sciences.
EMBO is an organisation of more than 2,200 leading researchers that promotes excellence in the life sciences in Europe and beyond. The major goals of the organisation are to support talented researchers at all stages of their careers, stimulate the exchange of scientific information, and help build a research environment where scientists can achieve their best work.
EMBO helps young scientists to advance their research, promote their international reputation and ensure their mobility. Courses, workshops, lectures and EMBO Press publications disseminate the latest research and offer training in techniques to maintain high standards of excellence in research practice. EMBO helps to shape science policy by seeking input and feedback from our communities and by following closely the trends in science. For more information visit: www.embo.org
About EMBO Membership
EMBO Members are a community of more than 2,200 EMBO Members and Associate Members. Election as a member recognises research excellence and outstanding achievements, and membership is a lifelong honour. EMBO Members guide the execution of all EMBO Programmes and activities by serving on EMBO Council, Committees and Advisory Editorial Boards, and review applications for funding. EMBO Associate Members, who reside outside Europe, add a global perspective to the current activities and future directions of the organisation.
By participating in the work of EMBO, the members collectively influence the direction of science and strengthen research communities in Europe and beyond. An annual election process ensures that the EMBO Membership represents a broad range of research fields and adapts to emerging trends.
