Professor Giles Yeo MBE (above), a leading geneticist, author and broadcaster, will visit Dame Allan’s Schools on Thursday to give a talk titled ‘Fish, Fat and Film’. Ahead of the lecture, he spoke about the importance of science, critical thinking and why pupils should never take simple answers at face value

Year 9 – Year 13 pupils at Dame Allan’s Senior School will have the rare opportunity on Thursday to hear Professor Giles Yeo MBE as part of the school’s lecture programme — a series designed to inspire curiosity and ambition. 

Best known for his pioneering work in genetics and obesity research, and for translating complex science into accessible media, Professor Yeo promises a talk that blends cutting-edge science, personal curiosity and real world relevance.

In ‘Fish, Fat and Film, he will explore three interlinked themes: his early work in molecular science (fish), his research into appetite, genetics and obesity (fat), and his role as a science broadcaster and communicator (film).

“I believe it’s central that all scientists play a role in communicating the work that they do,” he says. “Science affects everyone, and understanding it is more important now than ever. Young people should see how evidence underpins the claims we encounter every day, whether in nutrition, health or society. Learning to question and engage critically is essential.”

As a Professor of Molecular Neuroendocrinology at the MRC Metabolic Diseases Unit at the University of Cambridge, Yeo studies how genes influence feeding behaviour and body weight. His PhD, focused on the molecular evolution of immune genes in Japanese puffer fish, laid the foundation for a career studying obesity and the brain’s role in appetite.

Beyond the lab, he has become a familiar face in UK media — presenting documentaries for the BBC, hosting podcasts and writing books such as Gene Eating (2018) and Why Calories Don’t Count (2021), both of which challenge common assumptions about diet and health.

During his lecture, Yeo will encourage pupils to adopt a mindset of curiosity and flexibility. “If someone is selling you a simplified message about something complex — and this applies to most things in life — it’s important to question it and look at the science for yourself,” he says. “Go beyond the simple answers and embrace the noise. Enjoy the messiness of science. Never be afraid of being wrong, and never be afraid to change your mind.”

For pupils at Dame Allan’s — especially those interested in science, health or communication — this talk offers a rare chance to hear directly from a world class scientist who combines rigorous genetics research with media communication to make complex science both relevant and engaging.

Principal Will Scott says: “We want our pupils to leave school not only with strong academic results, but with the curiosity and confidence to challenge the familiar and ask deep questions. Giles Yeo’s lecture is exactly the kind of experience that can open young minds — it promises to be thought provoking and inspiring.”

•    The Lectures are open to pupils in Years 9-13, their parents, staff and Allanians. Free tickets can be booked here.

•    If you would like to help support future talks in The Lectures programme — perhaps by sponsoring a lecture or contributing in other ways — please contact Katherine Leonard, Development Manager at Dame Allan’s Schools, on 0191 275 1513 or by email at development@dameallans.co.uk