Peter Thorpe

Dr. Peter Thorpe is a Senior Lecturer in Biochemistry and Deputy Dean for Research (Impact and Industrial Engagement) at Queen Mary University of London's School of Biological and Behavioural Sciences. He leads the Thorpe Lab, part of the Centre for Molecular Cell Biology and Centre for Evolutionary and Functional Genomics. His research focuses on understanding cell division regulation, particularly mechanisms linking protein localization to cell cycle control, with applications in cancer treatment and regenerative medicine. Dr. Thorpe's work uses yeast as a model system due to its genetic simplicity and relevance to human cell biology.

Research interests include chromosome segregation, kinetochore dynamics, and the role of post-translational modifications (e.g., phosphorylation, methylation) in cell cycle regulation. His lab develops innovative methods like synthetic protein interactions and high-throughput screening tools (e.g., ScreenGarden). Collaborative grants include funding from BBSRC (£760k for microscopy) and the Francis Crick Institute (£384k transition grant).

Notable contributions include studies on Cdc5 kinase-CENP-A interactions, Dam1 methylation effects, and SARS-CoV-2 protein interactions with yeast proteomes. PhD students supervised include Grace Heredge Thomas (completed 2024) and Guy Mercer. The lab emphasizes industrial engagement and translational research, aiming to bridge basic science with clinical applications.