January 24, 2024

Professor Sir Ian Wilmut
1944 – 2023

Professor Sir Ian Wilmut was a pioneering biologist and embryologist who gained international acclaim for his groundbreaking work in the field of reproductive cloning.

Beginning his career at the University of Cambridge, Ian moved to the Animal Breeding Research Association (ABRO), which later became the Roslin Institute.  His work with reproductive cells and embryos ultimately led to him heading the team responsible for creating Dolly the Sheep.

Born at the Roslin Institute on 5 July 1996, Dolly was the first mammal to be cloned from an adult somatic cell.  Her creation transformed scientific understanding of cell development and demonstrated that a specialised adult cell could be reprogramed to create an entirely new animal.

Ian’s contribution to science extended far beyond Dolly. He remained an influential figure in reproductive and regenerative biology and was a srong advocate for the responsible and ethical application new scientific technologies.  His work helped open new areas of scientific enquiry, challenging our understanding of genetics and development and paving the way for advances in medicine, agriculture and beyond.

Roslin Foundation established the Sir Ian Wilmut Lecture to celebrate Ian’s remarkable contribution to science and his enduring association with Roslin.

Held annually, the Lecture reflects the spirit of Ian’s own work; ambitious, innovative science with the potential to change our understanding of biology and create lasting impact.

Find out more about the Sir Ian Wilmut Lecture