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The Evolution and Development of Complex Morphologies

Lead Research Organisation: John Innes Centre
Department Name: UNLISTED

Abstract

Abstracts are not currently available in GtR for all funded research. This is normally because the abstract was not required at the time of proposal submission, but may be because it included sensitive information such as personal details.

Technical Summary

Plant and animal organs display a remarkable diversity of shapes. A major challenge in developmental and evolutionary biology is to understand how this diversity of forms is generated. Recent advances in imaging, computational modelling and genomics now make it possible to address this challenge effectively for the first time. Leaf development is a particularly tractable system because of its accessibility to imaging and preservation of connectivity during growth. Leaves also display remarkable diversity in shape and form, with perhaps the most complex form being the pitcher-shaped (epiascidiate) leaves of carnivorous plants. This form has evolved four times independently, raising the question of whether its seeming complexity may have arisen through simple modulations in underlying morphogenetic mechanisms. To test this hypothesis, I aim to develop a model system for carnivorous plants based on Utricularia gibba (humped bladderwort), which has the advantage of having one of the smallest genomes known in plants (~2/3 the size of the Arabidopsis genome) and small transparent pitcher-shaped leaves amenable to imaging. I will use this system to define the morphogenetic events underlying the formation of pitcher-shaped leaves and their molecular genetic control. I will also develop and apply computational modelling to explore hypotheses that may account for the development of U. gibba bladders and further test these hypotheses experimentally. In addition, I will investigate the relationship between U. gibba bladder development and species with simpler leaf shapes, such as Arabidopsis, or species where the epiascidiate form has evolved independently. Taken together, these studies should show how developmental rules elucidated in current model systems might be extended and built upon to account for the diversity and complexity of tissue forms, integrating evo-devo approaches with a mechanistic understanding of morphogenesis.

Planned Impact

unavailable

Publications

10 25 50
 
Description A new model system, the carnivorous plant Utricularia gibba, has been developed to unravel some of the principles by which 3D shapes arise during development. Utricularia has aquatic cup-shaped leaves with closed lids, which provide suction traps to capture small animals. The trap structure is thought to have evolved through modification of leaf development, but how this happened is unclear. New methodologies were developed to allow this problem to be tackled in Utricularia, including genet
Exploitation Route In addition to publications knowledge and expertise was disseminated by visits to the lab, leading to co-authored publications in diverse fields (e.g. Kaucka et al., 2017 Oriented clonal cell dynamics enables accurate growth and shaping of vertebrate cartilage, DOI:10.7554/eLife.25902; Le Garrec et al., 2017 A predictive model of asymmetric morphogenesis from 3D reconstructions of mouse heart looping dynamics, doi: 10.7554/eLife.28951). We also hosted a sabbatical visit from Yohei Koide (Japan)
Sectors Agriculture

Food and Drink

URL https://wikis.nbi.ac.uk/InnerWorlds/index.php/Inner_World_of_Carnivorous_Plants
 
Description We have raised public awareness of the importance of carnivorous plants for understanding development and evolution through our website The Inner World of Carnivorous Plants. Our Science paper on leaf development published in 2020 with the front cover attracted much social media attention. The project also provided the foundation for a Science paper on the evolution and development of the grass leaf.
First Year Of Impact 2016
Sector Agriculture, Food and Drink
Impact Types Cultural

Societal

 
Title Tools for investigating carnivorous plants 
Description We have carried out the first mutagenesis on a carnivorous plant, developing methods for growing and dealing with large numbers of individuals. We have developed the first transgenic Utricularia and the first carnivorous plants with genetically marked sectors. 
Type Of Material Technology assay or reagent 
Provided To Others? No  
Impact None yet other than our basic research 
 
Description Antirrhinum and Utricularia genomics 
Organisation University of Beijing
Country China 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution We provide genetic material of Antirrhinum and Utricularia.
Collaborator Contribution Sequencing of the material provided and collaboration over its interpretation and analysis.
Impact Mainly academic interactions
Start Year 2014
 
Description Utricularia transformation 
Organisation Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences
Department Institute of Cotton Research (ICR)
Country China 
Sector Public 
PI Contribution We provide constructs for transformations
Collaborator Contribution They perform transformations and send back transformed plants.
Impact Still at research phase
Start Year 2012
 
Title Computational modelling of growth and development 
Description A general method for simulating morphogenesis of tissues and cells. 
Type Of Technology Software 
Year Produced 2010 
Impact Mainly on basic research on development. 
URL http://cmpdartsvr3.cmp.uea.ac.uk/wiki/BanghamLab/index.php/Software#Quantitative_understanding_of_gr...
 
Description "Physics & Biology of Plant Growth" Workshop, Ein Gedi 2023 Invited Speaker 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Title; The Genetic Control of Cell Layer Interactions Through Mechanics in Plants
Major 4 days conference invited speaker with attendees from all around the world
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
URL https://www.plant-bio-physics.org/
 
Description A virtual talk at The Banff International Research Station for Mathematical Innovation and discovery 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Postgraduate students
Results and Impact Multiscale Modeling of Plant Growth, Pattern Formation and Actuation | Banff International Research Station (birs.ca)

Gave a virtual talk
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
URL https://www.birs.ca/events/2022/5-day-workshops/22w5179
 
Description Article STEMM Champion: Sam Fox 
Form Of Engagement Activity A magazine, newsletter or online publication
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Cambridge Norwich Tech Corridor article about Sam Fox (Coen Lab) as a STEMM Champion.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2019
URL https://www.techcorridor.co.uk/articles/tech-corridor-women-in-steam-the-scientists/
 
Description Biophysics & Development Seminar at Flatiron Institute - New York University. The seminar took place virtually due to COVID 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Online seminar
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description Bringing the 'Self-made Shape' exhibit to 'Science Uncovered 2016' at the Natural history museum 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact An exhibition stand called 'Self-made shape', which communicated research findings on how form and pattern develop in different plants, was created. The stand was very interactive, consisting of a very visual display of carnivorous plants, two computer games, a video, a shrinking plastic activity and a cellophane activity. The stand was exhibited to the general public at the 'Science Uncovered 2016' event at the Natural History Museum, London, on the 30th September 2016, an event that attracted 5,789 visitors.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
 
Description Bringing the 'Self-made Shape' exhibit to Norwich Science Festival 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact An exhibition stand called 'Self-made shape', which communicated research findings on how form and pattern develop in different plants, was created. The stand was very interactive, consisting of a very visual display of plants and pottery- combining science and art to explain research findings, two computer games, two videos, a shrinking plastic activity, a cellophane activity and a carnivorous plant section. The stand was exhibited at the first ever Norwich Science Festival (18th-30th October, 2016). The stand was one of two main attractions visited by 1409 students and 109 teachers from 36 high schools during the initial four 'Learning Days' alone, and by many more members of the general public throughout the rest of the festival. Members of the Coen Lab were interviewed about the Self-made Shape exhibit by Anglia News, Mustard TV, BBC Radio Norfolk and the Young Communications Team at the Forum.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
URL https://www.jic.ac.uk/news/2016/11/celebrating-norwich-science-festival/
 
Description Bringing the 'Self-made Shape' exhibit to the Royal Society 'Summer Science Exhibition' 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact An exhibition stand called 'Self-made shape', which communicated research findings on how form and pattern develop in different plants, was created. The stand was very interactive, consisting of a very visual display of plants and pottery- combining science and art to explain research findings, two computer games, two videos, a shrinking plastic activity, a cellophane activity and a carnivorous plant section. The stand was exhibited to the general public at the Royal Society Summer Science Exhibition in London for a week (4th-10th July) . The event attracted 14,371 visitors, including 2,697 students, 328 teachers.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
URL https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QGgLfRUhW3Y
 
Description Carnivorous Plant Eduction Stand at Fascination of Plants Day Event 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Schools
Results and Impact Karen Lee and Claire Bushell Ran an 'Exploring Carnivorous Plants' stand at the Fascination of Plants day at JIC engaging school pupils and teachers. Exhibition advertised on Inner Worlds social media sites.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2015
 
Description Chelsea Flower Show 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact 157 000 attendees at the Chelsea Flower Show had the opportunity to Engage with our research at our Silver Award Winning Exhibition at the Chelsea flower show.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2019
URL https://genetics.org.uk/news/centenary-garden-exhibit-at-chelsea-flower-show-2019/
 
Description Created 'Self-made Shape' YouTube video 
Form Of Engagement Activity Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact This YouTube video explains scientific findings in relation to growth, polarity, form, pattern and the development of different morphologies to a lay audience. The video currently has 1353 views (15.02.17).
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
URL https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QGgLfRUhW3Y&t=4s
 
Description ERC Scientific Seminar: From planes to cups - The development and evolution of leaf shape 
Form Of Engagement Activity A broadcast e.g. TV/radio/film/podcast (other than news/press)
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Webcast
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2020
 
Description Engagement with not for profit organisations; Run a Creative Science Writing Course 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Other audiences
Results and Impact In June 2022 The Company of Biologists organised an unusual Workshop for creative science writing. For the first time, scientists interested in communication were gathered together to experiment fiction and non-fiction science writing. The outcome far exceeded the expectations of the participants. The recipe for success was a combination of professional fiction and non-fiction writers, a group of motivated students, and the amazing venue of Wiston House (built circa. 1576) in the English countryside.

The Workshop was organised and directed by Professors Buzz Baum, Enrico Coen, Jennifer Rohn, and Mark Miodownik, assisted by the great logistic support of The Company of Biologists and in particular Frank O'Donnell and Jane Elsom. Students from different countries and career backgrounds contributed to the unique multicultural and interdisciplinary vibes. Students were selected and some flew all the way from India, USA, Sweden - just to mention a few. Native as well as non-native speakers had the chance to ameliorate their writing skills or practice their first fiction writing in a supportive and enriching environment. I had the honour of being one of the students in the Workshop and I benefited from this experience beyond words. In actual words, as it is required for writers, I appreciated the attentive supervision from the acclaimed writers, junior writers, and science journalists present at the Workshop. They all had different writing styles and expertise, thus mentoring the students in their own personal and unique way.

During those four days, students were challenged to leave behind the rigor of the scientific method and explore creativity. We discussed literary fiction, writing style, all the way to how to get your piece published and deal with editors. The most valuable resource was receiving feedback from authors with different writing background and styles. Mentees had the chance to share writing pieces with peers and mentors, thus creating a collaborative and supportive environment.

The experiment of the Workshop was as follows: group together scientists with an interest in writing and observe the result. Students came from different disciplines - marine biology, entomology, biotech, genetics - but they all shared a passion for writing. Some of us were interested in fiction writing, others in science journalism. Some had just started drafting, others were about to submit their first manuscript. Everyone was given equal time to share their work and engage in exciting debates about literature. The result was a kaleidoscope of creativity, novelty, drama, and certainly a new perspective on science.

The Workshop was carefully planned to give students time to write, revise pieces and discuss them with supervisors. At every feedback session there was at least one mentor every two students, which meant that everyone received detailed and exhaustive comments.

Another highlight of the Workshop was the dining hall and the meals. During dining time, we had the most interesting and enlightening conversations. Writers have plenty of exciting stories to share. Students have plenty of energy and motivation to give. The bidirectional sharing of resources was simply powerful and enriching.

The glorious historic venue with its vast green certainly played a major role in finding inspiration and focus to write. Finding time and calm is not trivial on the daily life of a scientist. The Workshop created the right atmosphere to truly dive into books, words, and phrases. I would like to personally thank The Company of Biologists and all Wiston house staff for making all of this possible.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
URL https://thenode.biologists.com/workshop-commentary-creative-science-writing/meeting-reports/
 
Description Exploring Carnivores Talk and Demonstration in the JIC Historical Collection 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact Karen Lee and Sarah Wilmot gave a talk and demonstration in the JIC Historical Collection titled 'Exploring Carnivores'.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2013
URL http://collections.jic.ac.uk/discovering-carnivores-12th-13th-september-2013/
 
Description Exploring Carnivorous Plants stand at Youth STEMM Award Conference 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Schools
Results and Impact Karen Lee and Claire Bushell Ran an 'Exploring Carnivorous Plants' stand at the Youth STEMM Award Conference engaging school pupils and teachers. Exhibition advertised on Inner Worlds social media sites.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
 
Description Genetic Pioneers: The Evolution and Development of Species Diversity 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Virtual seminar at Institute of Biology of the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM)
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description Haldane Lecture at the Royal Institution 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact Lecture at the Royal Institution. The lecture was recorded and has had 13,000 views on youtube
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2017
URL https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q4QS62qMImw
 
Description Inside Science talk to gifted and talented school children 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Schools
Results and Impact Karen Lee gave a talk to gifted and talented school children about how scientists at JIC use carnivorous plants to understand development of complex leaf shape.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2015
 
Description Inside science talk: Inside Carnivorous Plants 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Schools
Results and Impact Karen Lee gave a talk and plant demonstration titled 'Inside Carnivorous Plants' to school children and teachers.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2014
 
Description Institut de Recherche 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Study participants or study members
Results and Impact Conference Oral Presentation:
Genetic Pioneers: The Evolution and Development of Species Diversity
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description Institute open day: Exploring Carnivores for Fascination of Plants Day 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Schools
Results and Impact Karen Lee and Claire Bushell Ran an 'Exploring Carnivorous Plants' stand at the Fascination of Plants day at JIC engaging school pupils and teachers. Exhibition advertised on Inner Worlds social media sites.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2013
URL https://wikis.nbi.ac.uk/InnerWorlds/index.php/Fascination_of_Plants_Day_2013
 
Description International undergraduate summer student training 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Undergraduate students
Results and Impact Enrico Coen initiated and lead an annual 8 week undergraduate summer student training programme, co-hosted by The John Innes Centre, The Sainsbury Laboratory and The Genome Analysis Centre, which started in 2013. The summer school provides UK and non-UK students with the unique opportunity to spend the summer on the Norwich campus. Students are housed together to encourage a community atmosphere and an enjoyable research experience in plant and microbial sciences. They will benefit from working directly with some of the world's leading scientists at internationally-recognised laboratories. Students have been hosted in the Coen laboratory.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2013
URL https://www.jic.ac.uk/news/2012/10/2013-undergraduate-research-programme/
 
Description Interview article in school science magazine 
Form Of Engagement Activity A magazine, newsletter or online publication
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Schools
Results and Impact Sam Fox was interviewed for an article in a school magazine on the 7th March 2018. The interview was about her job as a plant scientist and the route educationally she took to get into that role.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2018
 
Description Interview for Today's Science 
Form Of Engagement Activity A magazine, newsletter or online publication
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact Enrico Coen: Modeling Plant Genetics. Interview transcript with Today's Science. Available online
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2020
URL http://online.infobaselearning.com/Direct.aspx?aid=99270&pid=WE59
 
Description Interview: Plant and Flower Shapes BBC4 and World Service Radio 
Form Of Engagement Activity A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact Interviews on BBC4 and World Service Radio took place, discussing research findings on Plant and Flower Shapes.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2013
URL http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p0130rft
 
Description Linking Cell Biology to Morphogenesis 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Dynamic Cell IV online conference
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description News Article: in Nexus Newsletter Describing the Norfolk Heritage open day focussing on carnivorous plants in the JIC historical collection. 
Form Of Engagement Activity A magazine, newsletter or online publication
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Karen Lee released a news article in Nexus Newsletter describing the Norfolk Heritage open day focussing on carnivorous plants in the JIC historical collection.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2013
 
Description Norwich Science Festival 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Schools
Results and Impact Engagement activities with Norwich Science Festival on how genetics influences how plants grow and plant form
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2019
 
Description Organisation, running and teaching on Undergraduate Summer School 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Undergraduate students
Results and Impact The students are influenced in their career choices - many are inspired to do a PhD following attendance.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2020,2022
URL https://www.jic.ac.uk/training-careers/summer-schools/international-undergraduate/
 
Description Oxford University Biological Society webseminar & Q and A: From planes to cups - The development and evolution of leaf shape 
Form Of Engagement Activity A broadcast e.g. TV/radio/film/podcast (other than news/press)
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Webcast
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2020
 
Description Podcast interview with Daily Mail on Covid-19 testing in Norwich 
Form Of Engagement Activity A broadcast e.g. TV/radio/film/podcast (other than news/press)
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact Podcast interview with Daily Mail on Covid-19 testing in Norwich
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2020
URL https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-daily-show-with-andrew-pierce/id1488665239?i=1000474468439
 
Description Podcast interview with Jane Perrone on Leaf and shape etc 
Form Of Engagement Activity A broadcast e.g. TV/radio/film/podcast (other than news/press)
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact Podcast interview with Jane Perrone on Leaf and shape etc
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2020
URL https://www.janeperrone.com/on-the-ledge/2020/5/29/episode-142-leaf-botany-part-one-shape
 
Description Press release: "How Snapdragons keep their colour: signposting trick reveals evolutionary mechanism" 
Form Of Engagement Activity A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Media (as a channel to the public)
Results and Impact A press release was completed on the story and released to the John Innes Centre website with a link to collaborators and the paper. The story was also then promoted via the social media platform including Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. To promote the story further distribution platforms including 'Eurekaalert' (for a science specific audience) and 'Vuelio' (for a more general audience) were used. Own contacts were also followed up including local news reporters to ensure the paper and story was well publicised. The press release led to the following articles:

https://www.nytimes.com/2017/11/17/science/snapdragons-colors-genes.html

https://www.edp24.co.uk/news/environment/norwich-scientists-discovery-of-genetic-gymnastics-in-snapdragons-brings-new-insight-into-evolution-1-5294260

https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/snapdragons-spanish-pyrenees

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/11/171116142146.htm
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2017
URL https://www.jic.ac.uk/news/how-snapdragons-keep-their-colour-signposting-trick-reveals-evolutionary-...
 
Description Press release: "How Snapdragons keep their colour: signposting trick reveals evolutionary mechanism" 
Form Of Engagement Activity A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Media (as a channel to the public)
Results and Impact A press release was completed on the story and released to the John Innes Centre website with a link to collaborators and the paper. The story was also then promoted via the social media platform including Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. To promote the story further distribution platforms including 'Eurekaalert' (for a science specific audience) and 'Vuelio' (for a more general audience) were used. Own contacts were also followed up including local news reporters to ensure the paper and story was well publicised.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2017
URL https://www.jic.ac.uk/news/how-snapdragons-keep-their-colour-signposting-trick-reveals-evolutionary-...
 
Description Press release: "Leap forward in understanding plant organ growth" 
Form Of Engagement Activity A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Media (as a channel to the public)
Results and Impact A press release was completed on the story and released to the John Innes Centre website with a link to collaborators and the paper. The story was also then promoted via the social media platform including Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. To promote the story further distribution platforms including 'Eurekaalert' (for a science specific audience) and 'Vuelio' (for a more general audience) were used. Own contacts were also followed up including local news reporters to ensure the paper and story was well publicised.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2018
URL https://www.jic.ac.uk/press-release/new-model-is-a-leap-forward-in-understanding-plant-organ-growth/
 
Description Press release: "Leaves possess a molecular compass" 
Form Of Engagement Activity A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Media (as a channel to the public)
Results and Impact A press release was completed on the story and released to the John Innes Centre website with a link to collaborators and the paper. The story was also then promoted via the social media platform including Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. To promote the story further distribution platforms including 'Eurekaalert' (for a science specific audience) and 'Vuelio' (for a more general audience) were used. Own contacts were also followed up including local news reporters to ensure the paper and story was well publicised.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2018
URL https://www.jic.ac.uk/news/leaves-possess-a-molecular-compass/
 
Description Press release: "Snapdragon enters the genomic age" 
Form Of Engagement Activity A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Media (as a channel to the public)
Results and Impact A press release was completed on the story and released to the John Innes Centre website with a link to collaborators and the paper. The story was also then promoted via the social media platform including Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. To promote the story further distribution platforms including 'Eurekaalert' (for a science specific audience) and 'Vuelio' (for a more general audience) were used. Own contacts were also followed up including local news reporters to ensure the paper and story was well publicised.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2019
URL https://www.jic.ac.uk/press-release/snapdragon-enters-the-genomic-age/
 
Description Research and Support Staff Accessible Science Talks 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Inspiring and informing
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description Science Cafe Public talk 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact Enrico Coen and Scott Boden gave a joint Science Cafe talk entitled 'Cereals and Snapdragons' to the general public in Oct 2018 as a part of the Norwich Science Festival.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2018
 
Description Short course for students on how to chair and introduce a speaker 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Other audiences
Results and Impact A short course for students on how to chair and introduce a speaker was undertaken aimed at undergraduates and postgraduates.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2013
 
Description Skype interview with MSc student from Central St Martins University 
Form Of Engagement Activity A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Postgraduate students
Results and Impact Discussions and advice on carnivorous plants, our research and scientific thinking for creation of an installation exploring plants in the environment.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2019
 
Description Smithsonian magazine coverage of modelling work on how plants make leaves 
Form Of Engagement Activity A magazine, newsletter or online publication
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Coverage of our Science publication on understanding how leaf shape evolved through the study of carnivorous plants.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2020
URL https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/deciphering-how-plant-genes-drive-weird-wonderful-dive...
 
Description Soapbox Science Norwich Science Festival: how plants shape their leaves 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact On the 27th October 2018 Beccy Horn in the Coen Lab stood on a raised platform in Norwich City Centre and spoke to the genral public about their research that understands how the different shapes of leaves are formed.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2018
 
Description Splendid Failure: Role of Stresses and Polarity in Directing Morphogenesis 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Plant development workshop in University of Lausanne
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description Splendid Failure: Role of Stresses and Polarity in Directing Morphogenesis 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Invited speaker to speak at Israeli Society for Developmental Biology Seminar Series. Presented virtually
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description Talk at the Edinburgh Science Festival 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? Yes
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact A general talk on principles in systems biology was presented, in relation to the book Cells to Civilizations, short-listed for the Winton Book prize.

no actual impacts realised to date
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2014
URL https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sosCIIZROdw
 
Description Talk at the Norwich Science Festival 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact On the 24th October 2016 Enrico Coen gave a talk titled: "Why is a Snapdragon like a Fruit-fly?" to the general public at the Norwich Science Festival 2016.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016
 
Description Talk at the Royal Society Winton Prize Royal Society 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact A talk was delivered by Enrico Coen at the 2013 Royal Society Winton Prize for Science Books Award event with Dara O Briain, discussing the book 'Cells to Civilizations'. A YouTube video of the talk found has been viewed by 1710 people.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2013
URL https://youtu.be/-FDkm0boWfI
 
Description Taught on a Genetics Society Communicating Science Course 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Postgraduate students
Results and Impact In April 016 Enrico Coen taught at a Genetics Society Communicating Science Course how to effectively disseminate your research to others.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2016,2017
 
Description Virtual talk in Perpignan 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Evolution of Reproductive Barriers
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description Visit to home educated students 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Other audiences
Results and Impact Science discussion with home educated school children
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2019
 
Description Webcast: Carnivorous Plants in 3D: The Stuff of Horror Films! Scientific American blog by Carin Bondar 
Form Of Engagement Activity Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact A Scientific American blog was written by Carin Bondar about Karen Lee's work within the Coen laboratory, titled 'Carnivorous Plants in 3D: The Stuff of Horror Films!'.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2013
 
Description Webcast: Inner world of Carnivorous plants 
Form Of Engagement Activity Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact A video and website were produced by Enrico Coen and Karen Lee describing the research undertaken in the GRO (Growth And Development Underpinning Yield) institute strategic programme at the JIC on the Inner world of Carnivorous Plants .
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2013,2014,2015,2016
URL https://wikis.nbi.ac.uk/InnerWorlds/index.php/Main_Page#.Vt61a03cuUl
 
Description Webcast: Watch 'The Inner Worlds of Carnivorous Plants,' going viral: blog in Digital Journal 
Form Of Engagement Activity Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact A blog was written in Digital Journal titled: Watch 'The Inner Worlds of Carnivorous Plants,' going viral. It discusses the research in the Coen lab at JIC into the growth and evolution of carnivorous plants.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2013
URL http://www.digitaljournal.com/article/346984
 
Description Women of the Future 2017 Conference 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Schools
Results and Impact The 3rd Women of the Future Conference took place on Wednesday 29th November 2017. 170 young girls from 17 schools across Norfolk and Suffolk attended the unique event. The event is specifically aimed at Year 10 girls, and aims to raise aspirations, broaden horizons and facilitate engagement with world class scientists and leaders and promote careers in STEMM subjects.

The lack of women in STEMM careers continues to be a real cause for concern for employers.

At the John Innes Centre we are committed to promoting equality and diversity for all our staff and students and in addition recognise the importance of inspiring the next generation of female STEMM professionals.

Having first been launched in 2015, this year's event built on the success of the previous two conferences, giving the participants a great chance to meet and speak with more than 27 female role models and exhibitors from a diverse range of industries.

There was also fascinating line-up of speakers that included science author and presenter Dr Emily Grossman, Senior Advisor for Medical Applications at CERN Dr Manjit Dosanjh, and JIC Research Fellow Dr Philippa Borrill.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2017
URL https://www.jic.ac.uk/blog/women-of-the-future-2017/
 
Description Women of the Future Conference 2018 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Schools
Results and Impact The Women of the Future 2018 event took place with 200 girls from yr 10 (14-15 yr olds)

5 GEN female people involved:
-Speakers Jemima Brinton & Mikhaela Neequaye (Jemima is a researcher in crop genetics, Mikhaela is a Phd student in food nutrition). Science Chat on the Sofa with Speakers (Auditorium) -Chaired by Samantha Fox
-Closing Remarks - Samantha Fox
-Meet a professional session: Mikhaela Neequaye, Natalie Wager, Jess Hughes, Penny Hundleby
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2018
URL https://www.jic.ac.uk/blog/the-story-of-women-of-the-future-2018/
 
Description Work experience/Year 10 camp /Undergraduate placement 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Schools
Results and Impact Organisation, running and teaching on Undergraduate Summer School
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description Work experience/Year 10 camp /Undergraduate placement 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Schools
Results and Impact Organisation, running and teaching on Undergraduate Summer School
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
 
Description Workshop for undergraduate summer students from throughout the UK on behalf of the Genetics Society 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Undergraduate students
Results and Impact A workshop for undergraduate summer students from throughout the UK was run on behalf of the Genetics Society.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2013
 
Description Year 10 Science Camp 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an open day or visit at my research institution
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Schools
Results and Impact We introduced year 10 science students to life as a scientist and working in our labs.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2019
URL https://www.jic.ac.uk/training-careers/work-experience/year-10-science-camp/
 
Description YouTube video created: Evolutionary Genetics of Snapdragons 
Form Of Engagement Activity Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact 'A Flying Visit to the Antirrhinum Hybrid Zone in the Pyrenees'
Take a tour through the hybrid zone in the Pyrenees where a population of magenta Antirrhinum pseudomajus on the east meets a yellow Antirrhinum striatum population to the west and form a rainbow of hybrid flowers over a 1km stretch. Read about how our study of this region revealed how small RNA helps maintain diversity in the region. The video creates interest and communicates to the general public the research that takes place in the Coen Lab.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2017
URL https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=muP7fSn1eaE&feature=youtu.be
 
Description YouTube video: movie explaining the relationship between growth and division in plants 
Form Of Engagement Activity Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact Sam Fox (Coen Lab) and Ruby O'grady in our communications team created a video explaining the relationship between growth and division in plants after a new model was published. The video had 1587 views from the JIC tweet alone on 13.03.19 and another 250 on the JIC YouTube Channel.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2018
URL https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bvXBYL7WUDA
 
Description Youth STEMM Award mid-term conference 2019 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Schools
Results and Impact 80 students from 8 schools in Norfolk and Suffolk attended the Youth STEMM award mid-term conference on the 26th February 2019. There were 2 talks from John Innes Centre scientists and 10 interactive stands including the Coen Lab, who displayed a range of plants and research, explaining to the students what they do for their job. Feedback from the event indicated that 95% of those that completed a feedback form (53/80) felt the event was informative as it highlighted a range of different STEMM careers out there. 80% said the event had made them inspired to pursue a STEMM related career, or take a STEMM subject at higher education. ""This exhibit has inspired me to take a higher education level in biology or as a job."
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2019
 
Description Youth STEMM Mid Term conference 2018 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Schools
Results and Impact On the 6th March 12 schools with 146 students (aged 13-17) participated in the YSA midterm conference at the JIC Conference Centre. The event had a combination of science talks and interactive activities as a part of the STEMM showcase. The Coen lab exhibited their research on evolution, development of shape and form and genetics at the event.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2018