Jennifer Greaves

Professor Jennifer Greaves is a UKRI Future Leaders Fellow and Professor of Molecular Cell Biology at Coventry University's Centre for Health and Life Sciences. Her pioneering research investigates the regulation of protein S-acylation (palmitoylation) by metabolic enzymes, using interdisciplinary approaches combining cellular, molecular, and chemical biology techniques. Key discoveries include mechanistic insights into fatty acid selectivity of zDHHC S-acyltransferases and the functional consequences of palmitoylation on protein trafficking.

Greaves leads projects on ABHD16A/ABHD12 serine hydrolases and their roles in disease pathogenesis. Her laboratory employs cutting-edge methods including click chemistry, fluorescence imaging, and proteomics to map lipid-protein interactions. Publications demonstrate sustained focus on enzyme-substrate specificity and membrane dynamics, with recent work expanding into inhibitor design.

Honors include the Academy of Medical Sciences Springboard Award and editorial roles at PLOS One. She actively promotes scientific outreach through Biochemical Society initiatives.