Michelle Spear

• Professor of Anatomy, University of Bristol

I am privileged to currently lead the School of Anatomy, University of Bristol, meaning that I have oversight of our teaching and research activity. Each year, we provide applied human, animal, and comparative anatomy support to over 1,500 undergraduate and 1,400 postgraduate students.

Anatomy is, quite simply, the foundation of understanding what it means to be human (or animal). Our unique discipline spans science, medicine, art, law, history, philosophy, and ethics, offering unparalleled insights into our bodies and lives. Through anatomy, we discover not only how our structures function and connect but also how they've shaped our evolution, informed our culture, and influenced fields such as social science and the humanities.

The breadth of anatomy allows me to engage with its many facets in my practice. My research focuses on the architecture of synovial joints, drawing on my experience in histopathology to examine clinical and functional aspects of tissue-based research. I aim to contribute to clinical solutions through anatomical insights-a form of reverse translational research. Additionally, I hold a PG Cert in Law, initially pursued as a hobby, which has evolved into an interest in anatomy and tissue-based legislation. I also have a strong interest in the history of anatomy, which I support through my membership in the Faculty of History & Philosophy of Medicine and Pharmacy with the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries.

Assessment in medical education is another focus of mine. I currently serve as an Assessor Examiner for the Intercollegiate Committee for Basic Surgical Examinations (ICBSE), supporting Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons exams across the surgical colleges in the UK and Ireland.

Prior to becoming an academic, I worked in both transplant and histopathology. My first position in academia was in demonstrating anatomy – it was a revelation – I could not wait to get into work and this was a very clear signal to change careers. So, initially an accidental academic, I now have 20 years of experience within teaching and assessment for medical and scientific cohorts and in supporting student research.

• –present Professor of Anatomy, University of Bristol

• 2015 University of Cambridge, PhD Anatomy

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