Thomas Preiss

Thomas Preiss is a Professor of RNA Biology at the John Curtin School of Medical Research (JCSMR), Australian National University (ANU), and serves as Director of the Shine-Dalgarno Centre for RNA Innovation and the National Therapeutic mRNA Platform. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Newcastle upon Tyne and has extensive postdoctoral experience at the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL). His research focuses on RNA-level gene regulation, particularly in eukaryotes, with applications to cancer and cardiac biology. Key affiliations include the Division of Genome Sciences and Cancer and leadership roles in collaborative research groups.

Education

• Bachelor of Chemistry (1986-1991), Philipps-Universität, Marburg (Germany), and University of Bristol (UK)
• Ph.D. (1992-1995), University of Newcastle upon Tyne (UK)
• Habilitation in Biochemistry (1995-2002), EMBL, Heidelberg (Germany)

Research Interests

His group investigates RNA processing, modification, and interactions, with a focus on translational control mechanisms. Projects include studying RNA methylation (e.g., m5C and m6A), ribosome dynamics, and the role of RNA dysregulation in diseases like cancer. Techniques employed range from classical molecular biology to cutting-edge 'omics approaches.

Publications

Recent work highlights advancements in RNA modification profiling, translational control, and therapeutic mRNA applications. Key themes include the interplay between RNA modifications and translation efficiency, as well as the development of novel sequencing methods for studying ribosome interactions.

Labs & Teams

He leads the Preiss Group - RNA Biology and collaborates with the Shirokikh and Hannan groups on protein biosynthesis, translational control, and cancer therapeutics. The National Therapeutic mRNA Platform under his direction advances mRNA-based therapies.