Gavin Bowen-Metcalf

Gavin Bowen-Metcalf is a Senior Lecturer in Genetics and Developmental Biology within the Department of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering at Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge. He holds Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) and the Royal Society of Medicine (FRSM), and leads teaching in Biomedical Science and Laboratory Science programs. He is also the Course Leader for the BSc (Hons) Laboratory Scientist degree apprenticeship and actively supervises undergraduate, MSc, and PhD students.

Education:

• BSc (Hons) Human Biosciences, University of Northampton
• MRes (DIC) Oncology and Cancer Biology, Imperial College London
• Joint PhD in Clinical Medicine (Molecular Oncology) and Biomedical Engineering, Imperial College London
• PGCert in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education, Anglia Ruskin University

Gavin’s research centers on cancer biology, particularly the role of non-coding RNAs such as microRNAs in cancer development, metastasis, drug resistance, and early diagnosis. His work spans translational applications in molecular oncology, genomics, and histopathology, with a strong focus on identifying novel drug targets and leveraging natural compounds for cancer therapy. His interdisciplinary approach integrates molecular biology, biomedical engineering, and clinical diagnostics.

The recent publications highlight a consistent focus on microRNA-based cancer diagnostics, amplification-free detection technologies, biosensors, and public science communication. His work bridges laboratory research with real-world applications in early cancer detection and patient care, often through innovative engineering solutions and collaborations across academia, industry, and healthcare.

Scientific Awards and Recognitions:

• Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA)
• Fellow of the Royal Society of Medicine (FRSM)
• ACS’ Editors Choice (2016) for groundbreaking work in analytical chemistry and cancer diagnostics

Gavin has held research and clinical roles in the NHS, the medical devices industry (Clearblue), and the Wellcome Sanger Institute. He is an Associate Editor for Nature Oncogene, external examiner for the Universities of Birmingham and Nottingham, and provides research supervision across multiple levels. He is also actively involved in public engagement through media contributions to The Conversation UK and educational outreach via Springpod’s Subject Spotlight series.

Labs and Research Groups:

He leads the Cancer Cell Biology Research Sub-Group at ARU and conducts research involving circulating nucleic acids, microRNA biomarkers, and natural therapeutics. His work benefits from collaborations with clinical and industrial partners, enhancing translational impact. He is also a visiting scholar at multiple institutions, extending his academic influence.