Frieda Christie, former Electron Microscopist at the Royal Botanic Garden (RBGE) has been awarded the Trail Crisp award by the Linnean Society for her outstanding contribution to biological microscopy and for being instrumental in developing microscopy techniques for visualising important characters for taxonomy, development, and cytology for botanical research, particularly in the African Violet family. 

Every year, the Linnean Society of London awards celebrate excellence in science. President of the Linnean Society, Dr Sandra Knapp explained, “the Linnean Society awards and medals celebrate natural historians from inside and outside academia for their accomplishments in improving our understanding of the natural world. These extraordinary people have shown, across many branches of natural history, how in-depth study and practice can not only increase knowledge but can address some of our worlds pressing environmental problems.” 

Interest was sparked in this field of work when Frieda, from East Lothian, was studying biological science at Stirling University. The level of structure in nature beyond the naked eye amazes her. Electron Microscopy is most commonly used in medical applications and after graduating, Frieda worked at a London hospital and then Edinburgh’s “Dick” Vet school before joining RBGE as the Gardens electron microscopist in 1993. She continued her innovative work there until retiring in September 2021. 

Frieda has always felt privileged to work at RBGE: “This award came as a complete surprise to me, I’m delighted that my contribution has been thought worthy of recognition. It is a lovely way to mark my retirement, I’d like to thank everyone who nominated me”, she commented. 

ENDS 

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Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) is a leading international research organisation delivering knowledge, education and plant conservation action around the world. In Scotland its four Gardens at Edinburgh, Benmore, Dawyck and Logan attract nearly a million visitors each year. It operates as a Non Departmental Public Body established under the National Heritage (Scotland) Act 1985, principally funded by the Scottish Government. It is also a registered charity, managed by a Board of Trustees appointed by Ministers. Its mission is “To explore, conserve and explain the world of plants for a better future.”