Lesley-Anne Pearson

Lesley-Anne Pearson serves as Senior Biologist in the Drug Discovery Unit at the University of Dundee's School of Life Sciences. Her work bridges molecular pharmacology and public engagement through innovative art-science collaborations.

Her research focuses on high-throughput screening for RNA methyltransferase inhibitors, with significant contributions to SARS-CoV-2 antiviral development. The fingerprint analysis reveals dominant expertise in Guanine Methyltransferases (66%), High-Throughput Screening (66%), and Leishmania Parasites (44%), indicating a strong focus on infectious disease targets.

Recent publications (2021-2025) show consistent output in biochemical methodology and antiviral research, with notable impact on assay development. Her 2021 SLAS Discovery paper on SARS-CoV-2 inhibitors has garnered 32 Scopus citations and patent family citations.

• Science For All Badge 2023 (Public Engagement Award)
• Wellcome Trust-funded Drug Discovery Unit membership
• Dundee City Council collaborative projects

Pearson leads extensive public engagement through the Discover Life Sciences program, Girlguiding Science Camps, and community murals. Her 'Life Space' methodology transforms complex biochemistry into accessible public health tools, demonstrating exceptional science communication impact through 4 major annual outreach initiatives.