Find Academic Supervisors

Professor Graham Ladds is a Professor of Receptor Pharmacology at the University of Cambridge's Department of Pharmacology and Fellow of St John's College. He serves as Co-Director of the Cambridge Academy of Therapeutic Science and Director of Studies for Pharmacology. His academic journey includes a BSc in Biochemistry from the University of Birmingham and PhD in yeast pheromone signalling from the University of Warwick, where he progressed to Associate Professor before joining Cambridge in 2015. His research focuses on G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) pharmacology, specializing in: Agonist bias mechanisms and signaling dynamics Mathematical modeling of receptor-ligand interactions RAMPs (Receptor Activity-Modifying Proteins) in Class B1 GPCRs Intracellular calcium signaling pathways Development of biosensors for receptor activity screening He employs multidisciplinary approaches combining pharmacological assays, computational modeling, and machine learning. His recent publications demonstrate strong focus on adenosine receptor pharmacology, GPCR signaling bias, and therapeutic applications for metabolic/cardiovascular disorders. Research frequently appears in high-impact journals with significant industry collaboration themes. Honors include: Fellow of the British Pharmacological Society (2020) Royal Society Industry Fellowship for collaboration with AstraZeneca He leads a 17-member research group investigating GPCR signaling dynamics and maintains active industry partnerships with GSK, Takeda, and AstraZeneca. His teaching includes lectures on drug-receptor interactions and diabetes therapeutics for medical/natural sciences students. Laboratory activities focus on: BRET-based molecular probing of GPCR interactions Development of computational models for receptor activation Calcium signaling studies continuing legacy of Professor Colin Taylor Industry-linked drug discovery projects

• Pharmacology
• G protein-coupled receptors
• Signal Bias
• +5 more

Grant C Churchill is a Professor of Chemical Pharmacology at the University of Oxford, affiliated with New College as a Tutor in Medicine. His research group specializes in understanding cellular calcium signaling, particularly through the second messenger NAADP , and developing chemical tools for drug discovery targeting lysosomal calcium channels and bipolar disorder . Research Focus Churchill’s work spans: Identifying NAADP antagonists like Ned-19 via shape-based virtual screening Repurposing ebselen as a lithium mimetic for bipolar disorder Elucidating lysosomal calcium dysregulation in Niemann-Pick disease and GM2 gangliosidoses Investigating serotonin receptor signaling in psychiatric disorders Key Contributions His group’s discovery of ebselen progressed to phase 2 clinical trials, while acetyl-leucine is being tested for lysosomal diseases. Current projects focus on novel chemical probes for two-pore channels and mechanisms of TFEB activation in neuroprotection.

• Calcium Signaling
• Second Messenger Systems
• Drug Discovery and Repurposing
• +5 more

Shirley Graham is a Research Fellow at the University of St Andrews School of Biology, focusing on CRISPR-Cas bacterial immune systems. Her work examines molecular mechanisms of type III CRISPR effectors, antiviral signaling pathways, and nuclease regulation. Key research areas include: Cyclic nucleotide signaling in antiviral defense Structural enzymology of CRISPR-associated nucleases CRISPR system regulation and inactivation mechanisms Bacterial-phage coevolution Recent publications characterize novel CRISPR ancillary effectors, antiviral signaling via ATP-SAM conjugation, and structural foundations of type III CRISPR complexes. Work increasingly explores therapeutic applications for antibacterial strategies and phage resistance engineering. Methodological strengths include structural biology (cryo-EM), bioinformatic discovery of defense systems, and biochemical analysis of enzyme kinetics. Research contributes to the National Center for Smart Growth and integrates computational predictions with experimental validation of immune mechanisms.

• CRISPR-Cas Systems
• Antiviral Immunity
• Nuclease Enzymology
• +2 more

Maria Cascio is a Research Fellow at the University of Aberdeen, currently serving as Senior Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Partner within the Directorate of People. She holds a PhD in Pharmaceutical Chemistry from the University of Fisciano, Salerno, Italy (2006) and has been based at the University of Aberdeen since 2007. Her academic journey includes significant research contributions in cannabinoid pharmacology and medicinal chemistry. PhD in Pharmaceutical Chemistry, 2006, University of Fisciano, Salerno, Italy Master in Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Technologies, 2002, University of Palermo, Italy Maria Cascio's primary research interests lie in the pharmacology and therapeutic potential of plant cannabinoids, with a focus on the endocannabinoid system in health and disease. Her work spans medicinal chemistry, allosteric modulation of cannabinoid receptors, and the development of novel CB1 and CB2 receptor ligands. She also investigates the anti-proliferative effects of omega-3 fatty acids and their derivatives in prostate cancer. Her research combines biochemical, pharmacological, and cell-based assays to characterize cannabinoid activity. Her recent publications reflect a strong trend in methodological development for cannabinoid receptor assays, pharmacological characterization of phytocannabinoids like THCV and CBD, and exploration of their therapeutic applications in inflammation, cancer, and neurological disorders. The work often involves interdisciplinary collaboration and synthetic chemistry approaches to probe receptor mechanisms. Maria Cascio is actively involved in university governance and inclusion initiatives, serving on multiple committees including the University Race Equality Strategy Group, the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Committee, and as a Social Bias Observer in Promotions Committees. She has supervised both undergraduate and PhD students and has secured research funding from diverse sources including NIDA, NHS Grampian, Tenovus Scotland, and the University of Aberdeen. Her collaborations span institutions in the UK, Italy, and the US, reflecting the international scope of her research. She also contributes to the scientific community as a peer reviewer, book reviewer, and former Guest Associate Editor for Frontiers in Neuropharmacology. Maria Cascio leads and participates in several research teams focused on cannabinoid pharmacology, prostate cancer, diabetic nephropathy, anticonvulsant effects, and analgesia. Her work is supported by internal collaborators such as Dr Iain Brown, Professor Matteo Zanda, and Dr Mirela Delibegovic, and external partners across Europe and the United States.

• Medicinal Chemistry
• Pharmacology
• Cannabinoid Research
• +7 more

Professor Stuart Littlefair is a Professor of Astrophysics at the University of Sheffield's School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences. His research focuses on Interacting binary stars , Brown dwarfs and low-mass stars , Star formation , and High time resolution astrophysics . He contributes to projects like the Gravitational-wave Optical Transient Observer (GOTO), which detects transient astrophysical events. His work bridges observational astronomy and theoretical modeling, emphasizing multi-messenger astronomy and gravitational wave source identification. Research interests include studying accretion processes in compact binaries, AGN variability, and transient phenomena like gamma-ray bursts. Recent publications highlight his involvement in analyzing high-cadence optical/X-ray data (e.g., NGC 4395 AGN variability studies) and discovering peculiar systems such as inflated brown dwarfs in eclipsing binaries. He collaborates internationally, serving on committees like the ESO Observing Programmes Committee and the LSST:UK Board. Teaching activities include PHY241 Observational Astronomy . Professional roles include leading the Astrophysics Research Cluster and contributing to departmental administration (e.g., Head of Second Year Astrophysics). His work supports the University of Sheffield's astronomy infrastructure, including the GOTO telescope array.

• Astrophysics
• Interacting binary stars
• High time resolution astrophysics
• +5 more

Associate Professor Rebecca Burton is a cardiac electrophysiologist in the Department of Pharmacology at the University of Oxford's Medical Sciences Division. Since completing her DPhil in 2006, she has led research on cardiac arrhythmias with focus on lysosomal calcium signaling and hydroxychloroquine's effects on heart rhythm. Her group of approximately 10 researchers employs novel imaging methods and traditional pharmacology techniques to study cardiac function. Her research interests center on cardiac arrhythmia mechanisms, particularly the role of lysosomal calcium stores in atrial fibrillation. She investigates cAMP-Ca 2+ cross talk in atrial nanodomains, IP3 receptor signaling , and acidic organelle function in cardiomyocytes. Her work bridges basic science with translational applications through collaborations with clinicians across disciplines. Her 15 most recent publications (2022-2025) demonstrate consistent focus on lysosomal calcium signaling in cardiac rhythm regulation, with particular emphasis on atrial-specific mechanisms. Key themes include compartmentalized cAMP signaling, NAADP-mediated calcium release, and the role of endolysosomal networks in atrial fibrillation pathophysiology. Scientific recognition includes: Winston Churchill Medal for contributions to Science and Technology (2015-2016) Sir Henry Dale Fellowship supporting her ambitious interdisciplinary research Beyond research, Burton serves in teaching roles including examination setting and marking, provides pastoral care at her college, and actively engages in public outreach through events like the Science Museum Lates. She has advocated for improved career pathways for early-career researchers and greater equality of opportunity in academia. Her laboratory specializes in advanced cardiac optical mapping, lysosomal calcium imaging, and multi-disciplinary approaches to studying the neuro-cardiac axis, with particular focus on how sympathetic neuronal activity affects cardiac conduction and arrhythmia susceptibility.

• Cardiac Electrophysiology
• Cardiac Arrhythmias
• Lysosomal Calcium Signaling
• +5 more

Filiz Tepekoy serves as Lecturer in Biomedical Science with specialization in Histology at the College of Science and Engineering. Her research program centers on cellular mechanisms in reproductive biology, particularly proteolytic processes during oocyte maturation. Recent publications investigate signaling pathways in gamete development and stem cell applications. Research domains include: Molecular regulation of oocyte maturation and fertilization Wnt signaling pathways in reproductive tissues Stem cell differentiation and therapeutic applications Histological analysis of reproductive systems Her publication record demonstrates consistent focus on fundamental reproductive mechanisms, with recent work examining kinase regulation in oocyte development (2023) and PIP2 signaling effects (2020). Technical expertise spans immunohistochemistry, cell culture, molecular biology techniques, and histological analysis across multiple model systems.

• Reproductive Biology
• Oocyte Maturation
• Proteolysis Mechanisms
• +2 more

James Abbott is a Senior Lecturer and Data Analysis and Bioinformatics Group Manager at the University of Dundee, School of Life Sciences. He holds a PhD in Plant Molecular Biology from the same institution and a Postgraduate Certificate in Academic Practice. His research focuses on computational biology, genomic projects in plants and microbiology, and bioinformatics applications. Abbott’s work includes contributions to the tomato genome sequencing project, rhizosphere microbiota studies, and metagenomic research. He leads the Data Analysis Group and is the Open Research Lead for the School of Life Sciences. Research interests span genomic analysis, microbial ecology, and computational methods for biological questions. He has been recognized with awards such as the Fellow of the Royal Society of Biology (2024) and the Brian Cox Prize for Public Engagement (2023). Teaching responsibilities include modules like Applied Bioinformatics and Advanced Technology Platforms. Abbott collaborates on projects like the Dundee Resource for Sequence Analysis and Structure Prediction (DRSASP) and leads international studies on microbiota and bioinformatics tools.

• Computational Biology
• Genomics
• Microbiology
• +3 more

Jakub Tomek is a Sir Henry Wellcome Fellow at the University of Oxford, working within the Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genomics (DPAG) and based in the Zaccolo Laboratory. His research focuses on the intersection of cardiac physiology, computational modeling, and arrhythmia mechanisms. Dr. Tomek's research interests center around cardiac diabetic remodeling, arrhythmogenesis, and pro-arrhythmic drug interactions. He employs a multidisciplinary approach combining whole-heart experiments , subcellular imaging , and advanced computational simulations of human cardiomyocytes. His work bridges experimental cardiology with computational modeling to address critical questions in cardiac electrophysiology and drug safety. His research outputs demonstrate strong trends across cardiac computational modeling, calcium signaling analysis, and arrhythmia mechanisms. The publications reveal a consistent focus on developing computational tools for cardiac research while investigating fundamental mechanisms of cardiac rhythm disorders, particularly in diabetic conditions and post-infarction settings. Sir Henry Wellcome Fellowship - prestigious research award supporting his work on cardiac diabetic remodeling and arrhythmogenesis Dr. Tomek has led the development of several important software tools for cardiac research including ToR-ORd (a computational model of human ventricular myocytes), SparkMaster 2 (for calcium spark analysis), and COSMAS (for cardiac optical mapping analysis). His previous postdoctoral work included positions with Prof. Don Bers at UC Davis, Prof. Neil Herring at Oxford, and Prof. Blanca Rodriguez, focusing on CaMKII function, neuropeptide Y, and computational electrophysiology models. His research group within the Zaccolo Lab focuses on compartmentalized cAMP signaling and its role in cardiac rhythm control, utilizing both experimental and computational approaches to understand fundamental cardiac mechanisms.

• Cardiac Physiology
• Cardiac Pathophysiology
• Cardiac Electrophysiology
• +5 more

Ben Miller is an Associate Professor at the University of East Anglia's School of Biological Sciences, affiliated with Molecular Microbiology and Plant Sciences. His research focuses on plant growth and environmental responses, particularly calcium signaling and stress tolerance mechanisms. He holds a BSc from Durham University (2008) and a PhD from the John Innes Centre (2012). His research explores how calcium acts as a second messenger in plant stress responses, decoding signals from drought, salt, cold, and pathogen interactions. He investigates calcium-binding proteins and anti-stress molecule production, with applications in synthetic biology and crop resilience. His work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals addressing sustainable agriculture and climate action. Current lab members include PhD students Tamim Kabir and Althea Rose, alongside senior researchers like Alejandro Morales Florez. Past students include Connor Tansley and Hannah Wright. Miller has secured funding from NERC, BBSRC, and industry partners for projects like developing biostimulants and studying DMSP in terrestrial systems. Key collaborations include work on plant-microbe symbiosis, optogenetic tools, and stress adaptation. His projects aim to engineer stress-tolerant crops and understand plant-environment interactions at the molecular level.

• Calcium Signaling
• Plant Stress Responses
• Molecular Microbiology
• +3 more

Ana Maria Rossi is a Research Fellow in the Department of Pharmacology at the University of Cambridge and an Official Fellow at Queens' College. She serves as Director of Studies for Part II Pharmacology and as a Tutor for specific student cohorts (MT25 and MT26). With academic qualifications including a BSc from Universidad Nacional del Sur in Argentina and a PhD, she contributes significantly to both research and teaching within the university's biological sciences framework. Dr. Rossi's research focuses on the intricate mechanisms of cellular signaling, particularly centered around IP3 receptors and calcium dynamics. Her work spans molecular pharmacology, receptor biochemistry, and cellular communication pathways. She investigates how IP3 receptors function at the molecular level, their structural organization, ligand binding properties, and role in calcium signaling cascades. Her research has important implications for understanding fundamental cellular processes and potential therapeutic interventions targeting receptor function. Analysis of her publication record reveals a consistent research trajectory focused on IP3 receptor structure-function relationships, with particular emphasis on ligand binding, receptor kinetics, and signal transduction mechanisms. Her work combines biochemical, biophysical, and molecular approaches to unravel the complexities of cellular signaling. Over the past decade, her research has evolved from basic receptor characterization to more sophisticated investigations of receptor organization, signaling dynamics, and potential therapeutic applications. Dr. Rossi is actively involved in teaching undergraduate students at Cambridge University. She supervises Part IA Biology of Cells, placing strong emphasis on broader scientific learning and fostering student enthusiasm for science beyond mere exam preparation. She regularly incorporates current research papers into her supervisions and offers termly mock exams that students find valuable. Additionally, she runs three-week 'mini projects' for Part IB students, providing hands-on research experience within her areas of expertise.

• Pharmacology
• Cellular Signaling
• Calcium Signaling
• +3 more

David George Emslie Smith is a Professor at the School of Engineering & Physical Sciences and the Institute of Biological Chemistry, Biophysics and Bioengineering at Heriot-Watt University. His research focuses on microbial pathogenesis, nanoparticle interactions, and antimicrobial resistance. He has contributed to over 126 peer-reviewed publications, with recent work emphasizing bacterial genomics, nanomaterial toxicity, and environmental health impacts. Key research areas include the molecular mechanisms of Escherichia coli virulence, the development of in vitro models for nanotoxicology, and the study of metal ion interactions in bacterial physiology. Collaborations span institutions in Poland, Thailand, and the UK, addressing global health challenges like antibiotic resistance and air pollution effects. His articles highlight advancements in understanding bacterial resistance mechanisms, nanoparticle applications in drug delivery, and the physiological impacts of particulate matter. Smith's work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals related to good health and well-being (SDG 3) and clean water and sanitation (SDG 6). He leads interdisciplinary teams investigating microbial diversity, plasmid-mediated resistance, and oxidative stress responses in cellular systems.

• Microbiology
• Bacterial Pathogenesis
• Nanoparticle Applications
• +3 more

Sean Brown is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Built Environment and Life Sciences at Abertay University. His research focuses on reproductive physiology, particularly the regulation of sperm function and ion channel (dys)function in human sperm, in collaboration with the University of Dundee and NHS Tayside. He also conducts pedagogic research in online teaching and assessment. PhD in Neuroscience, University College London Postdoctoral experience at University College London and University of Dundee External examiner at Modern Science and Arts University, Cairo (2012–2014) Reviewer for Human Reproduction Dr. Brown's research interests center on reproductive physiology, with emphasis on ion channel function in sperm, intracellular calcium signaling, acrosome reaction, and fertilization mechanisms. His work combines electrophysiological techniques (patch clamp) with molecular biology to study CatSper and other cation channels. He also investigates pedagogical innovations in higher education, particularly inquiry-based learning and quality by design in curriculum development. His recent publications reflect a dual focus: (1) reproductive biology, exploring calcium signaling, sperm activation, and high-throughput screening for male fertility; and (2) educational research, focusing on inquiry-based learning modules and assessment in biomedical sciences. These works appear in journals such as Molecular Human Reproduction , International Journal of Molecular Sciences , and Journal of Biological Education . Scientific recognition includes: Grants from Tenovus Scotland Carnegie Scotland funding Medical Research Council (MRC) support Chief Scientist Office grants Dr. Brown has supervised research students (5 supervised works noted) and secured competitive research funding. He has contributed to curriculum development as an undergraduate module leader for Human Physiology, Medical Physiology, Transfusion Science, and Advanced Pathophysiology. His external service includes acting as an examiner and peer reviewer, demonstrating professional engagement. He is also involved in collaborative research networks with the University of Dundee and NHS Tayside.

• Reproductive Physiology
• Sperm Function Regulation
• Ion Channel Dysfunction
• +12 more

Professor Thomas Brand serves as Chair in Developmental Dynamics at Imperial College London's National Heart & Lung Institute within the Faculty of Medicine. His research spans cardiac development, ageing, and molecular mechanisms of heart function. Affiliated with the Centre for Doctoral Training in Chemical Biology and Cardiac Function research groups, he maintains active roles in both basic science and translational cardiology initiatives. His research focuses on three interconnected domains: (1) Proepicardium development into epicardium and coronary vasculature, (2) Left-right asymmetry establishment in embryonic heart morphogenesis, and (3) Popeye domain-containing (POPDC) proteins as novel cAMP effectors regulating cardiac pacemaking and stress adaptation. Recent work reveals POPDC proteins' critical roles in membrane trafficking, ion channel modulation, and arrhythmia pathogenesis through interactions with Nav1.5 channels and TREK-1 potassium channels. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications (2021-2025) reveals dominant research streams: 78% focus on cardiac molecular mechanisms (particularly POPDC proteins), 15% on plant pathology collaborations (boxwood blight, root rot), and 7% on organoid technology. Key trends include increasing emphasis on cAMP compartmentalization (33% of cardiac papers), translational electrophysiology (27%), and cross-disciplinary horticultural pathology (20%). His work bridges developmental biology with clinical cardiology through innovative models including zebrafish, cardiac organoids, and multi-year field trials. As a referee, Professor Brand contributes to major journals including Circulation , Nature Genetics , and Development , while serving grant review panels for the Wellcome Trust, MRC, DFG, and Royal Society. His laboratory maintains strong international collaborations evident in multi-institutional publications and German field studies.

• Cardiac Development
• Cardiac Ageing
• Heart Morphogenesis
• +6 more

Dr. Niall Macquaide is an Honorary Lecturer in the School of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health at Caledonian University. His research focuses on calcium signaling in cardiac myocytes, cardiac electrophysiology, and mechanisms underlying heart failure. He has contributed extensively to studies on ryanodine receptor (RyR) function, calcium handling defects, and arrhythmia triggers. His work employs advanced imaging techniques like super-resolution microscopy and computational modeling to explore cellular-level mechanisms. Key areas of investigation include Ryanodine receptor clustering and dispersion, calcium transients in cardiac dysfunction, and the role of post-translational modifications (e.g., palmitoylation, SUMOylation) in ion channel regulation. Dr. Macquaide has collaborated on studies involving rabbit, rat, and human cardiac tissue models, addressing topics like ventricular arrhythmias, myocardial infarction effects, and atrial fibrillation mechanisms. His publications span high-impact journals such as Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences , Cardiovascular Research , and Journal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology . While no formal awards are listed, his research has implications for understanding and treating cardiac arrhythmias and heart failure.

• Cardiac Physiology
• Calcium Signaling in Cardiac Cells
• Cardiac Electrophysiology
• +3 more