Amanda Mackenzie

Amanda Mackenzie is a Professor and Head of Department in the Department of Life Sciences at the University of Bath, where she leads the Inflammatory Signalling Research Group and the Centre for Bioengineering & Biomedical Technologies (CBio). She is actively involved in research, teaching, and supervision at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

• University: University of Bath
• School/Department: Department of Life Sciences
• Role: Head of Department, Principal Investigator
• Research Group: Inflammatory Signalling Research Group
• Email: A.Mackenzie@bath.ac.uk
• ORCID: 0000-0002-9935-418488

Her research focuses on the biology of aging, inflammatory signalling pathways, and mechanisms of cell death, with particular expertise in innate immune cells (especially macrophages) and retinal pigment epithelial cells. She employs advanced techniques including in vitro cell culture, protein biochemistry, patch clamp electrophysiology, and fluorescent microscopy. Her group has developed innovative tools such as fluorescent peroxynitrite probes in collaboration with Prof. Tony James and is pioneering retina-on-a-chip technology with Dr. Paul De Bank to study age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and scleroderma-related pulmonary hypertension.

The most recent articles highlight a strong trend in biomedical diagnostics, inflammatory biomarkers, and translational research. Key themes include the development of fluorescent probes for theranostics, organ-on-a-chip models for retinal disease, and molecular mechanisms of cell death in inflammatory and degenerative conditions. These works reflect a multidisciplinary approach combining chemical biology, immunology, and tissue engineering.

She contributes significantly to academic education, convening modules such as Receptors to Genes, Pharmacology Placement Landmark Dissertations, and Pharmacology Communication Skills. She previously served as the Bath lead for the GW4 BioMed MRC Doctoral Training Programme and as the Bath Pharmacology Industrial Placement Tutor. Her educational research explores the use of Peerwise for peer learning and formative feedback, enhancing student engagement through digital tools.

Dr. Mackenzie leads multiple funded research projects from organizations including the BBSRC, Dunhill Medical Trust, MRC, and Bath Institute for Rheumatic Diseases. These projects focus on hypoxic imaging, retinal dysfunction, angiogenesis in arthritis, and inflammatory signalling. She collaborates widely with researchers in Pharmacy & Pharmacology (Bath), Royal United Hospital, and international partners. Her lab fosters a collaborative environment for PhD students and postdoctoral researchers, welcoming self-funded candidates and those applying for fellowships.