An internationally renowned scientist whose pioneering research into female reproductive biology has had a worldwide impact has been recognised for her outstanding contribution to science and education with an Honorary Doctorate from UWS. 

Professor Evelyn Telfer CBE, who was born in Kilmarnock and lived in Hulford, Ayrshire, was celebrated during a ceremony at Paisley Abbey today for her exceptional contribution to reproductive biology, her groundbreaking research and her longstanding connection with the University, having graduated from Paisley College of Technology in 1982.

Professor Telfer attended High School in Kilmarnock before studying at Paisley College of Technology, graduating in 1982 with a First Class BSc Honours degree in Biology. She received the Top Biology Prize and was named the most distinguished student in the School of Science. She went on to complete a PhD in ovarian development at the University of Edinburgh in 1987 and, after working in the USA, returned in 1992 as a lecturer. She is now Professor of Reproductive Biology.

Leading a research group in Ovarian Development at the University of Edinburgh, Professor Telfer has pioneered research into growing human eggs outside the body, with the potential to transform fertility preservation options for girls and women undergoing chemotherapy and other treatments that can damage the ovaries. Her work has attracted worldwide media attention and recognition from the scientific community.

Her accolades include the Society for Reproduction and Fertility's Anne McLaren Distinguished Scientist Award (2018), being named one of Porter Magazine's Incredible Women of the Year (2018), and inclusion in the BBC's list of five research developments that could change our lives (2018). She was appointed a CBE in the 2021 Queen's Birthday Honours for services to Female Reproductive Biology, received the Society's prestigious Marshall Medal in 2022 and was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh in 2025.

Professor Telfer said: “I am honoured to receive this recognition from UWS. My journey began in Ayrshire, and my time at Paisley College of Technology was hugely influential in shaping both my academic interests and the career that followed.

“I was fortunate to be inspired and encouraged by the late Professor John Smyth, Head of Biology, alongside the staff and fellow students who helped nurture my passion for biological sciences. I look back on my time at Paisley with enormous gratitude and take great pride in the contribution the University continues to make to education, opportunity and society.

“It is particularly rewarding to see my work recognised by an institution with such a strong commitment to equality and improving lives. I hope that research into female reproductive health continues to receive the attention and investment it deserves, helping to improve options and outcomes for women and girls around the world.”

I hope that research into female reproductive health continues to receive the attention and investment it deserves, helping to improve options and outcomes for women and girls around the world.

Professor Evelyn Telfer CBE

Professor James Miller, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of the West of Scotland, said: “Graduation is one of the highlights of the University calendar, providing an opportunity to celebrate the achievements, dedication and hard work of our graduates, while recognising the families, friends and colleagues whose encouragement and support have helped them reach this important milestone.

“Professor Telfer's achievements strongly reflect UWS's commitment to equality, improving lives and advancing knowledge in areas that make a meaningful difference to society. Her pioneering contribution to female reproductive health, in particular, highlights the importance of research that addresses women's health needs and helps create better opportunities and outcomes for future generations. Her work has the potential to transform lives around the world, and this Honorary Doctorate is a fitting recognition of her achievements and her connection to the University.”

Professor Telfer's achievements strongly reflect UWS's commitment to equality, improving lives and advancing knowledge in areas that make a meaningful difference to society.

Professor James Miller, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of UWS 

Professor Telfer’s work aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 3: good health and wellbeing, Goal 5: gender equality, Goal 9, industry, innovation and infrastructure, Goal 4: quality education and Goal 10: reduced inequalities.