Dr Preston is reknowned as being one of the leading experts in the fields of genetic biology. She studied Physics, majoring in Quantum Mechanics and Chemistry, obtaining degrees in both simultaneously at the University of British Columbia. She returned to UBC in 1947 with their fledging genetics program where she obtained a Masters. In 1951 Dr Preston was personally invited by Dr Clunies Ross to lead genetics research for CSIRO, which he was Chairman. At the time, the science community were split between support and disdain. Dr Preston's credentials were not at question but her single-mided behaviour toward her role and study.