David Parkinson

Professor David Parkinson is a Professor of Neuroscience at the Peninsula Medical School, University of Plymouth. He serves as the Inspire Lead for the Medical School and is the Home Office Named Information Officer for the university. His work involves significant external collaboration through the Inspire initiative with Exeter, Bristol, and Cardiff Universities.

His research focuses on neuroscience, developmental biology, and cancer, particularly in the areas of Schwann cell biology, peripheral nerve regeneration, and tumorigenesis in meningioma and schwannoma. He teaches neuroscience and cell signaling across multiple programs, including the Foundation and Physician Associate Courses, and serves as an academic tutor for first- and second-year medical students.

The recent research articles highlight a strong focus on molecular mechanisms in NF2-mutated and Merlin-negative tumors, with investigations into YAP/TAZ signaling, human endogenous retroviruses, VEGF+ Schwann cell subpopulations, and targeted therapies using proteomics and genomics. His work contributes to advancing neuro-oncology and regenerative neuroscience.

He is a member of the European Association of Cancer Research and his research aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health and well-being.

• Supervised 12 Plymouth theses, indicating active student mentorship.
• Extensive research output (105 publications) with recent high-impact papers in journals like Brain and Neuro-Oncology.
• Active in national and international research networks, particularly in cancer and neuroscience.

He leads and contributes to collaborative research teams focused on peripheral nerve tumors and regenerative mechanisms, with ongoing work in targeted therapies for schwannoma and meningioma.