Professor Lord Winston has been recognised with an honorary PhD by the Weizman Institute of Science in Israel.

Lord Winston, Professor of Science and Society and Emeritus Professor of Fertility Studies at Imperial College London, was chosen to receive the honour in recognition of his significant contribution to fertility research and for his championing of science education.

An eminent fertility expert, Lord Winston has pioneered new treatments to improve in vitro fertilisation (IVF), including pre-implantation diagnosis which allows embryos to be screened for genetic diseases. 

He is a prolific science communicator, presenting BBC series such as Superhuman, Child of our Time, The Human Body and Threads of Life.

At Imperial, Lord Winston founded the Wohl Reach Out Lab - a dedicated laboratory space specifically designed to engage school children in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Since its launch thousands of students from schools across London and more widely, have visited the lab.

The Weizman Institute is a science-focused research university in Rehovot, Israel.  Lord Winston received the accolade at a ceremony held as part of the 67th Annual General Meeting of the Institute’s International Board on Monday 9 November.

Scientific Pioneer

Professor Daniel Zajfman, President of the Weizman Institute of Science, presents Lord Winston with the honorary PhD.

Professor Maggie Dallman, Associate Provost (Academic Partnerships) at Imperial said: “Lord Winston is a true scientific pioneer and a national treasure. His contributions to society are immense – from his life changing fertility research, his commitment to science communication through to his dedication in engaging young people in science. We  are delighted that the Weizman Institute have recognised Robert's many contributions and we wholeheartedly congratulate him on this honorary degree.”

Professor Lord Winston said: “The standard we see coming from the Weizmann Institute we only see in countries that are top in science. There is no question that Israel, as a small country, is punching way above its weight.”

• Photos courtesy of the Weizman Institute