Nessa Carey

Nessa Carey is a British, award-winning author and world-renowned biotechnology columnist. Based in Cambridge, UK, Nessa has written and lectured extensively on the topics of genetics, biotechnology and the ethics of technological innovation. She is best known for her engaging, accessible and often humorous writing.

Nessa’s educational background is diverse and distinguished. She earned a degree in biology from Imperial College before pursuing a PhD in virology from University College London. Prior to becoming a full-time author, Nessa enjoyed a successful career in the private biotechnology sector. She was a long-time associate at British-based biotechnology company, Syngenta, and was a consultant for numerous corporate and governmental organizations.

Nessa is perhaps best known for her books: “The Epigenetics Revolution” (2011), “Junk DNA” (2013) and her latest, “The Vaccine Race: Science, Politics, and the Human Cost of Defeating Disease” (2018). Her books are popular among science enthusiasts, students and professionals alike, as they provide readers with an entertaining narrative about complex biotechnological topics.

Nessa’s “The Epigenetics Revolution” explores how epigenetics—the regulation of gene expression—emerged to challenge the genomic view of inheritance. In “Junk DNA,” Nessa dives deeply into the idea that so-called “junk” DNA plays an important role in shaping the genetic blueprint of all living things. “The Vaccine Race” takes readers on a global tour of vaccine research, examining the science, politics, and human cost of developing ingenious solutions to some of the world’s most daunting health problems.

Nessa’s work has earned her numerous awards and accolades. She received the International Vaccine Institute award for scientific writing in 2016 and the Writers for a New Century award for nonfiction in 2017. Most recently, Nessa was on the shortlist for the prestigious Royal College of Psychiatrists Book of the Year award for “The Vaccine Race.”

Nessa is a sought-after speaker who is asked to speak to global audiences about biotechnology, epigenetics and science communication. When not writing or lecturing, Nessa can be found playing the piano, gardening and spending time with her family.

Nessa is a scientist with a talent for writing: bright, conversational and accessible. Her books guide readers through the complexities of biotechnology, genetics and epigenetics. In doing so, Nessa has helped to bridge the gap between scientists and the general public.