Nigel Emptage

Nigel Emptage is a Professor of Neuropharmacology and Head of the Department of Pharmacology at the University of Oxford. He holds academic roles in the Medical Sciences Division and has served as Senior Dean of Lincoln College. His research focuses on synaptic signaling, optical neuroimaging techniques, and molecular mechanisms underlying neuronal communication.

Education: PhD in Zoology from the University of Cambridge (1987-1991), BSc (Hons) in Biophysics from the University of East Anglia (1984-1987). Postdoctoral training included work with Tim Bliss at the National Institute for Medical Research and Tom Carew at Yale University.

Research interests include optical recording of neuronal activity, synaptic plasticity, and the development of advanced microscopy tools. Notable achievements include pioneering optical quantal analysis and innovations in volumetric imaging technologies.

Awards include the Pharmaron Prize (2018) and the University of Oxford Teaching Excellence Award (2017). He has secured grants from BBSRC, MRC, EPSRC, and the Wellcome Trust. Academic service roles include Director of Graduate Studies (2006-2014) and leadership in neuroscience oversight committees.

Outreach initiatives include teaching the European Microelectrode Cell Physiology course and community programs with Lincoln College. The Emptage Group specializes in synaptic pharmacology and neuroimaging.