Pioneering Microcirculation Researcher Recognised for Scientific Excellence

We are pleased to confer the 2025 Stewart Cameron Lecture upon Dr Becky Foster, the University of Bristol, in recognition of her outstanding contributions to understanding kidney disease through basic scientific research. The lecture will be delivered at UK Kidney Week (10-12 June, Bournemouth International Centre).

From Zoology to Kidney Science: An Academic Journey

Dr Foster’s path to becoming a leading vascular biologist began with:

• BSc in Zoology (University of Wales, Swansea, 1999)

• PhD in Microvascular Research (Bristol, 2004): Studied VEGF-A’s role in podocyte biology under Professors Dave Bates and Steve Harper

• MRC Postdoctoral Fellowship: Extended her work on renal physiology with Professors Peter Mathieson and Moin Saleem

• BHF Intermediate Fellowship (2010): Investigated VEGF-C’s regulation of glomerular barrier function

Her research has been supported by Kidney Research UK, Diabetes Research and Wellness Foundation, and the European Foundation for the Study of Diabetes.

Research That Redefines Kidney Vascular Biology

Dr Foster’s lab focuses on:
🔬 Endothelial Glycocalyx: The protective blood vessel lining whose dysfunction contributes to kidney disease
💊 Therapeutic Innovation: Developing approaches to restore damaged glycocalyx across vascular beds
🧪 Translational Models: Advanced permeability assays bridging lab findings to clinical applications

"Becky’s work on VEGF signalling and glycocalyx biology has rewritten how we understand filtration barrier pathology," notes a Bristol colleague.

Award-Winning Science

The Stewart Cameron Lecture recognises her:
✅ 125+ publications in high-impact journals (h-index 24)
✅ Competitive funding success (MRC, Wellcome, BHF)
✅ Leadership in Bristol’s Renal MRes programme and GW4 INSPIRE network

About the Stewart Cameron Lecture

Named in honour of Professor Stewart Cameron (1934-2023), one of the UK's most influential nephrologist-scientists, this annual award celebrates:

• Groundbreaking discoveries in kidney disease mechanisms

• Commitment to translating laboratory research to clinical benefit

• Dedication to mentoring future scientific leaders

Why This Matters

Dr Foster’s work bridges fundamental science and patient impact:

• Her microcirculation research has redefined the understanding of glomerular function

• Therapeutic developments target unmet clinical needs

• Mentorship roles strengthen the UK’s nephrology research pipeline

UK Kidney Week 2025

The lecture will feature as a highlight of the conference’s scientific programme, which includes:

• Cutting-edge basic and clinical research presentations

• Specialised workshops for multidisciplinary professionals

• Early career researcher development sessions