Christopher N. Parris

Professor Christopher N. Parris is Head of the School of Life Sciences at Anglia Ruskin University (Faculty of Science and Engineering), where he has worked since April 2017. Previously, he served as Head of the Biosciences Division at Brunel University, West London (2014-2017). His academic journey began with a BSc in Biology from Nottingham University (1983), followed by a PhD in Cancer Cell Biology from University College London (1989).

• Chair of the Biomedical Research Group
• Member of the Association for Radiation Research (UK)

His research focuses on DNA repair mechanisms, cancer risk assessment, and molecular diagnostics. He has developed a thriving research group studying inherited DNA repair defects linked to cancer hypersensitivity and pioneered biomarker development for chemotherapy/radiotherapy response prediction.

Recent publications highlight his expertise in BRCA1 inhibition, γ-H2AX/Rad51 biomarkers, and lentiviral gene therapy applications. Grants include £277,000 from Bart’s Charity (2013-17) for DNA repair biomarker development and £123,000 (2018-19) for therapeutic antibody research targeting annexin pathways.

He has supervised 10 PhD students as first supervisor and mentored 4 post-doctoral fellows. His teaching spans cell biology, molecular genetics, and cancer treatment. Media appearances include BBC Breakfast discussing melanoma gene discovery.