David M. Williams

Dr. David M. Williams is a Reader in Chemical Biology at the University of Sheffield, leading the Chemical Biology Research Cluster within the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences. He holds a BSc in Chemistry (1985) and PhD (1988) from the University of Liverpool. His postdoctoral research included roles at the Max-Planck Institute and the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology before joining Sheffield in 1995.

His research focuses on nucleic acid chemistry, including the synthesis of modified nucleosides/nucleotides for DNA replication studies, DNA repair mechanisms, and the development of nucleic acid-based ligands. Key interests include O6-alkylguanine lesions, cross-linking agents, and the structural properties of modified DNA.

He has contributed over 100 publications, spanning topics like DNA repair proteins (MGMT/Atl1), synthetic nucleotide analogs, and environmental toxin impacts (e.g., bracken fern carcinogens). Teaching includes organic chemistry modules at undergraduate/postgraduate levels, such as Aromatic Chemistry and Heterocyclic Chemistry.

Williams is actively involved in lab leadership, advising students on research projects, and advancing chemical biology methodologies. His work bridges synthetic chemistry, molecular biology, and biomedical applications.