Nicholas R. Leslie

Nicholas R. Leslie is a Professor at Heriot-Watt University's School of Engineering & Physical Sciences, affiliated with the Institute of Biological Chemistry, Biophysics and Bioengineering and the Institute of Chemical Sciences. He serves as Director of Research for the School. His expertise spans cancer biology, biochemistry, and biomedical engineering.

Education: BSc in Genetics (Cambridge University), PhD in Molecular Biology (Glasgow University). Postdoctoral research at the Beatson Institute and Dundee University. Appointed Independent Investigator at Dundee in 2002, moved to Heriot-Watt in 2013, promoted to Professor in 2017.

Research focuses on cellular growth signaling pathways (e.g., PTEN and PI3K), with pioneering work on oxidation-driven PTEN activation. Collaborations include microfluidic cancer diagnostics with Prof. Kersaudy-Kerhoas and 3D bioprinted tumor models with Prof. Melchels. Recent work emphasizes translating engineering innovations to cancer research.

Notable projects include prostate cancer imaging algorithms, gellan gum-based biofabrication, and cell-free DNA extraction methods. His work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health and innovation.

Grants include £350,000 for prostate cancer research. Active in mentoring PhD students and directing interdisciplinary initiatives.