Benjamin Davis

Benjamin Davis is a Professor at the Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford (2005–present) and a Fellow and Tutor at Pembroke College, Oxford (2001–present). He obtained his B.A. and D.Phil. from the University of Oxford, where he was trained in carbohydrate chemistry by Professor George Fleet.

• Education: B.A. (Chemistry w/ Chemical Pharmacology), University of Oxford (1993); D.Phil., University of Oxford (1996).

Davis’s research focuses on the chemistry, biology, and biotechnology of carbohydrates and proteins. By integrating organic synthesis, structural biology, and cellular studies, he pioneers chemical approaches to manipulate biomolecules directly, bypassing traditional DNA-based methods. This work bridges Synthetic Biology and Chemical Biology, yielding therapeutic and biotechnological applications with global impact.

His scientific contributions are reflected in numerous honors, including the RSC Meldola Medal (1999), Leverhulme Trust Phillip Leverhulme Prize (2002), and election to the Royal Society (2015). He has also received lectureships and awards from institutions worldwide, such as the MIT TR35 (2003) and the ACS Breslow Award (2017).

• Scientific Awards: 1999–2017 accolades from RSC, MIT, ACS, and international institutions.

Davis has mentored over 50 graduate students and 100 postdoctoral researchers, many of whom now lead independent research groups. His advocacy for science extends to editorial roles (e.g., Editor-in-Chief of Current Opinion in Chemical Biology) and public engagement through media and festivals like the Cheltenham Science Festival.