Professor Anna Middleton, [PhD, AHCS 17064]
Associate Director Engagement and Society
A recognised leader in ethics, public and patient engagement, and social sciences research at the Wellcome Sanger Institute.
Founder of the Engagement and Society team at Wellcome Connecting Science, responsible for developing and delivering a strategy to embed societal perspectives into genomic research. Work is grounded in a central question: How is society responding to genomic technology—and how can science be democratised to benefit all?
Proudest achievement has been the creation of the Engagement and Society group. Deep gratitude goes to the talented and dedicated team, whose passion and commitment are a constant source of inspiration.
Founding Director of the Kavli Centre for Ethics, Science, and the Public at the University of Cambridge. The Kavli Centre was designed as a partner to Wellcome Connecting Science.
“The positioning of a Kavli Centre for Ethics, Science, and the Public within two world-leading organisations [the Sanger Institute and Cambridge University]…has the potential to transform the engagement landscape” [Professor Julian Rayner, former Director of Connecting Science]
Anna is widely recognised as one of the foremost leaders in ethics and society research…We recognise there is a pressing need to specifically fund and support public engagement and research around ethics…it would be of enormous value to join with the University of Cambridge to create a critical mass of multidisciplinary experts in this field” [Professor Sir Mike Stratton, former Director of Sanger Institute]
Brings extensive expertise in both quantitative and qualitative research methods, producing rigorous insights into public attitudes, beliefs, and values around genomics. A leading expert in ELSi (Ethical, Legal, and Social Issues), with a focus on bridging ethical understanding with practical application in clinical and research contexts.
A dynamic communicator and skilled facilitator, known for fostering dialogue, catalysing collaboration, and motivating others to rethink the role of science in society. Creates tangible impact, from shaping policy to creating educational films and engagement tools used across healthcare, research and public sectors.
Trusted as an advisor to national and international bodies, including Health Education England on consent for the 100,000 Genomes Project, and the Topol Review, commissioned by the Secretary of State for Health, exploring the future of genomics, AI, and robotics in the NHS.
A UK-registered clinical scientist and genetic counsellor, co-author of the UK’s core curriculum for genetic counselling training. Held key leadership roles, including Chair of the Association of Genetic Nurses and Counsellors, Vice Chair and Academic Advisor to the Genetic Counsellor Registration Board, and member of the World Economic Forum’s Biotechnology Council.
Designed and led major global public engagement initiatives, including the UK’s first Citizens’ Jury on human embryo editing and Your DNA, Your Say—the largest worldwide study of public attitudes to genomics, capturing the views of over 37,000 people across 22 countries and 18 languages. This work continues to shape policy through the Global Alliance for Genomics and Health.
A long-standing advocate for psychological safety, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. Draws on both lived experience and academic insight to foster cultures where individuals feel safe, respected, and empowered to contribute—where kindness and accountability are mutually reinforcing.
Stands for what is right, not for recognition, but because it matters – always chooses the path that serves the greater good, even when it’s not the easiest.
The UK Citizens’ Jury on embryo editing, created by Anna:
Film from 2023 on the motivation for setting up the Kavli Centre:
BBC Radio 4 Today programme interview on the Citizens’ Jury:
Behind the scenes, making films about genetics:
Interview on the role of research in genetic counselling:
My timeline
Vice Chancellor's Impact and Engagement Award for Collaboration, University of Cambridge
Professor and Director Kavli Centre for Ethics, Science, and the Public, University of Cambridge
Associate Director Engagement and Society, Wellcome Connecting Science
Chair Association of Genetic Nurses and Counsellors UK and ROI
Head of Society and Ethics Research, Connecting Science
Wellcome Genome Campus Principal Social Scientist
Ethics Researcher on the Deciphering Developmental Disorders project at the Sanger Institute. Ran the GenomEthics project
Chief and Principal Investigator on NIHR grant at Cardiff University on attitudes of d/Deaf people towards genetic counselling
Cancer Genetic Counsellor at the East Anglia Medical Genetics Service, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge
PhD Genetics and Psychology from University of Leeds - attitudes of d/Deaf people towards pre-natal testing for deafness
Genetic Counsellor at the Yorkshire Regional Clinical Genetics Service, St James' Hospital, Leeds
Research Genetic Counsellor, collected the families that were part of the research collaboration that discovered the Connexin 26 gene, University of Leeds
MSc Genetic Counselling, University of Manchester
BSc Genetics (hons), Newcastle University
My publications
