From an early fascination with science to leading groundbreaking research in neurodegenerative diseases, Professor Heather Mortiboys has carved out a remarkable career in neuroscience and metabolism. Now at the forefront of mitochondrial research and drug discovery, she is not only pushing the boundaries of medical science but also mentoring the next generation of researchers.
Heather wears many hats, currently working as Professor of Cellular Neuroscience and Metabolism as well as leading a research team of 15 researchers working in mitochondria, patient derived cells, understanding mechanisms and drug discovery for neurodegenerative diseases. She also teaches postgraduate taught masters courses, and undergraduate courses. Then alongside these roles Heather is also the Deputy Dean of the School of Medicine and Population Health, Head of the Division of Neuroscience and Deputy Faculty Director for Research and Innovation with a remit for Knowledge Exchange.
Her journey into biomedical science began at the University of ºù«Ӱҵ, where she completed her undergraduate degree. "I knew I wanted to do something in biomedical research, particularly at the medical translational end," she recalls. Her passion for the field was sparked during school, where she engaged in numerous STEM events aimed at encouraging young women into science. However, her career almost took a very different path. "I was torn between two directions—science or becoming a fighter pilot," she laughs. "I researched it a lot, but ultimately, science was my thing."
After graduating in 2001, she sought a more hands-on research experience, leading her to pursue a PhD at the Max Planck Institute in Dresden, Germany. It was there that she developed a deep interest in mitochondria and neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Parkinson’s. Heather said: "In my third year of undergrad, I had one lecture on Parkinson’s disease. The lecturer talked about all these advances, yet we hadn't been able to improve treatment at all. That was it for me, I wanted to dedicate my research to changing that."
Following her PhD, Heather worked as a research associate in Dresden before returning to ºù«Ӱҵ as a postdoctoral researcher in 2006. She made a bold decision, turning down a three-year contract elsewhere for a shorter 12-month opportunity focused on mitochondrial methodologies here at the university. "I took a risk because it aligned with my research interests," she explains. That decision paid off; within six months, Parkinson’s UK funding was secured, ultimately this work began laying the foundation for her future lab.
By 2013, she had earned a Parkinson’s UK Senior Fellowship, allowing her to establish her own research group. "That was when I really started to build my team," she says, "I brought in PhD students, gained additional grants, and formed collaborations with industry partners."
Over the last decade, Heather has been at the cutting edge of preclinical to clinical research, working with patient-derived cells to develop robust models for testing small molecule drug compounds. "The ultimate goal that drives me is improving treatments for patients. I want my findings to make a difference beyond the lab and into the clinic. Working at SITraN (ºù«Ӱҵ Institute for Translational Neuroscience) makes that possible, as well as working with industry partners."
Beyond her research, she is deeply committed to mentorship and education. As Deputy Dean of the School of Medicine and Population Health and Head of the Division of Neuroscience, she dedicates significant time to supporting early-career researchers. "I have received support from various people during my career and now I see my role as fundamentally about helping people navigate their careers, whether they choose academia or another path," she explains, "research can be tough, you do need resilience, but if you have a curious mind and love learning new things every day, it's an incredibly rewarding career."
She has also championed public and patient involvement (PPI) in research, developing training resources to help laboratory-based researchers understand the importance of patient engagement. "Scientists need to realise that engaging with and involving patients makes our research stronger and more impactful."
Despite her demanding career, Heather is a strong advocate for work-life balance. "I love my job, but it doesn’t define me," she emphasises. As a mother of two, she takes pride in never missing a school performance or sports game. "Being a whole person outside of work makes you a better scientist."
One of her favourite pastimes is baking, a passion that led her to take on a 30 day baking challenge during the pandemic. "I baked a cake every day for 30 days, it was intense, but my kids loved it! Their favourite is my triple chocolate fudge cake."
She also spends weekends in sports halls, cheering on her boys in national league basketball games. "It’s a great balance, science during the week and basketball at the weekend!"
As an advocate for women in STEM, Heather is passionate about breaking down barriers. "My parents never told me I couldn’t do something, and that made all the difference. I want young women to know that if science excites them, they should pursue it."
Her advice to aspiring researchers is simple: "Follow your curiosity, stay resilient, and remember that no two career paths are the same. Find the route that works for you."
Heather Mortiboys continues to drive innovation in neuroscience, not just through her research but through the legacy she is building - one that fosters the next generation of scientists ready to take on future challenges.