Tim Spector OBE is a British epidemiologist, medical doctor, and science writer, known for his research on the relationship between nutrition, the gut microbiome, and health. He is a Professor of Genetic Epidemiology at King’s College London and the director of the Twins UK study, which is one of the largest collections of clinical data globally. Tim is also a scientific co-founder of ZOE, a company aimed at helping individuals understand their unique biology to improve their wellbeing.
Tim has published over 1,000 original articles in leading scientific journals, placing him among the top 1% of most cited scientists worldwide. His best-selling books include 'Identically Different', which simplifies the understanding of genetic traits, and 'The Diet Myth', which introduced the importance of the gut microbiome to a broader audience. His recent work, 'Spoon Fed', explores food science and personalised nutrition, while 'Food for Life', delves into the latest scientific evidence on diet and health.
Tim's ability to communicate complex scientific concepts has led him to present his findings on the microbiome to global audiences. His collaboration with Jonathan Wolf and George Hadjigeorgiou during a presentation on microbiome research resulted in the creation of ZOE. The company gained prominence during the COVID pandemic, leading the largest active cohort study with over 2 million participants, significantly contributing to understanding the virus and its impact.
Tim advocates for a Mediterranean-style diet that is plant-based, fibre-rich, and limits ultra-processed foods. He has received numerous awards for his contributions to science, including an OBE, and is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Biology and the Academy of Medical Sciences. Tim continues to make regular media appearances, sharing insights from his research and publications.