معرفی
Grant Wheeler is a Professor in the School of Biological Sciences at the University of East Anglia (UEA), where he leads the Wheeler Group and conducts research in cell and developmental biology. He is also a member of the Cells and Tissues research group and serves as the BIO Open Lecture Coordinator. His research primarily uses the amphibian model organism Xenopus laevis to study molecular mechanisms in embryonic development.
- Professor in Cell and Developmental Biology, University of East Anglia (2020–present)
- Reader in Cell and Developmental Biology (2015–2020)
- Senior Lecturer (2010–2014)
- Lecturer (2001–2009)
- Postdoctoral Research Associate at University of Dundee and MIT (1996–2001)
- PhD from N.I.M.R., Mill Hill, London (1992–1996)
- BSc in Biochemistry, King's College London (1988–1991)
His research focuses on the molecular regulation of cell type origin and migration during embryogenesis. Key areas include Wnt signaling, neural crest development, microRNA function, cell adhesion/migration via matrix metalloproteinases and ADAMs, and chemical genetic screens for melanoma therapeutics. He employs modern embryological and molecular biology techniques in Xenopus to study these processes in a whole-animal context.
The most recent publications highlight his group’s expertise in gene regulation, CRISPR-based functional genomics, and Wnt signaling across model systems. Articles published in Nature Communications and Bone Research demonstrate ongoing contributions to understanding developmental signaling and regeneration. His work bridges fundamental developmental biology with translational applications in skeletal disorders and cancer.
Grant Wheeler is actively involved in mentoring and training. He welcomes PhD students and postdoctoral researchers, supporting applications for fellowships such as EMBO and Marie Curie. He collaborates closely with Professor Andrea Munsterberg and participates in joint lab meetings and seminars. He also encourages lab members to attend international conferences and training courses.
He has secured multiple research grants from prestigious funders including the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), the National Centre for the 3Rs, the Royal College of Surgeons of England, and the Company of Biologists. Current projects include functional analysis of alkylglycerol monooxygenase in Wnt signaling, neural crest disorders, combinatorial melanoma therapies, and cardiotoxicity screening tools.
Wheeler is an active member of the scientific community, serving as an Ambassador for the British Society for Cell Biology since 2010. His work has been featured in news outlets, blogs, and social media platforms, and has been referenced in patents, indicating broader scientific and translational impact.
