An interview with Jo Knight, from PreCiS, November 2005

Dr Jo Knight is on the CiS committee, has a PhD in Genetics, and works as a researcher at Kings College Hospital, London.

What have you been doing until now?

After science A levels and a biology degree I took an office job. I soon realised that I missed science, and two years after leaving university I started a PhD in the genetics of high blood pressure. I now work at the Institute of Psychiatry developing methods to analyse data collected for genetic studies.

Who have been the most important role models in your life?

An old lady who lived in the village I grew up in who taught me (through her actions not her words) that it was God who mattered, not things at periphery of Christianity (e.g. denominational differences).

What challenges have you come across as a Christian and a scientist?

Science pushes the frontiers of technology and allows us to live in a world that in some ways is unrecognisable from the world in which the Bible was written. This means that we face issues that the Bible does not address, such as care of the dying, when we need to decide if/when to let someone die who is currently only alive due to the advances in modern medicine. We need to address these challenges by working out in community which Biblical principles apply and how they are to be interpreted.

In what ways have you engaged with the challenges that you have meet?

I have attended meetings and debates organised by groups such as British association of science and the Human Genetic commission. I have also responded to consultations on topics such as sex selection in IVF.

How has your faith helped you as a scientist, or vice versa?

My faith has motivated me to work hard as a scientist and I really enjoy the work that I do, I interact with lots of different people in different ways, from teaching groups and individuals to collaborating with a wide range of people on a variety of projects. As I attempt to develop new ways to analyse genetic data, I am continually stimulated and challenged to consider the complexity of the world and reflect upon how awesome the God who created it is.

What do you do for fun?

I like reading and going to the cinema. I also travel a fair bit with work, which I really enjoy.

What question would keep you debating till four in the morning?

None, I need my sleep!

Favourite luxury?

My house, where I live with my husband. It is quite spacious and in a nice area. We moved in over a year ago and are still decorating!

If you were organising a conference (or a committee away day!) where would it be?

Possibly somewhere in India. I have never been there and would like to go.

Favourite film? (and why!)

Dodgeball. It makes me laugh!

If you were not a biologist what would you be?

I think I would like to have some kind of job working with a marginalised community, either working at grass roots to help people get accommodation etc. or lobbying the government to provide for people in need.