Paper short abstract:

I discuss narratives constructed by researchers around the notions of environment and epigenetics. The environment is defined as modifiable lifestyle factors, the epigenome as a malleable space that can be 'worked' on, while individuals are framed as responsible agents that can change their health.

Paper long abstract:

Epigenetics research highlights the importance of environmental factors that can impact gene regulation by leaving marks on the epigenome. Findings suggest the reversibility of epigenetic changes, while research in transgenerational epigenetics also underlines their heritable character. In this presentation, I draw upon findings from an ethnographic study carried out in two epigenetic research laboratories in the United Kingdom, and discuss the temporalities constructed in epigenetics research. I analyse the narratives constructed by researchers around the notions of environment and epigenetics. I examine the ways scientists use the concept of mediator to frame the interactions between environment, the epigenome and genes. I argue that the use of the mediator metaphor enables scientists to create a space and a time-window for the environment and genes to communicate and interact. I then examine the specific articulations of the notion of environment mobilised by scientists. I show that researchers define the environment as lifestyle factors, while individuals are framed as empowered agents who can "change the fate of their genes" and reverse epigenetic changes by modifying their lifestyle. This narrative identifies the epigenome as a malleable space where individuals can improve their health, while it delineates a time-window for individuals to change. I argue that through these narratives, scientists create space and time in between environment, epigenetics and genes.