Remembering Professor Philippa Borrill: A leading voice in plant science

The Society for Experimental Biology (SEB) is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Professor Philippa Borrill, a highly respected and influential member of the plant science community.

Professor Borrill died over the Easter weekend following a rare immune system disorder (HLH), leaving behind a legacy of scientific excellence, collaboration, and mentorship.

Philippa was widely recognised as a leading figure in plant biology, whose work contributed significantly to advancing our understanding of crops and their resilience.
Beyond her scientific achievements, she was known as a generous collaborator, an inspiring mentor, and a valued colleague to many across the global research community.

In 2022, SEB had the honour of awarding Professor Borrill the Plant President’s Medal, recognising her outstanding contributions to plant science and her emerging leadership in the field.
Her work exemplified the values that the Society seeks to champion: excellence, innovation, and impact.

To honour her memory and celebrate her contributions, we are highlighting Philippa’s interview in SEB’s Scientists with Impact series
In this interview, she shared insights into her research journey, her motivations, and her vision for the future of plant science, an enduring testament to her passion and commitment to the field.

Professor Borrill science with impact

 

 

Professor Borrill will be remembered not only for her scientific achievements but also for her warmth, generosity, and the positive influence she had on those around her. 

She will be greatly missed by the SEB community and the wider plant science field.

Our thoughts are with her family, friends, and colleagues at this difficult time.
The SEB Team