John Barrow

Professor John Barrow is a Professor of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology at the University of Aberdeen, where he also serves as Dean for Employability and Entrepreneurship since 2020. He is affiliated with the School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, based at the Institute of Medical Sciences on the Foresterhill Campus with office address at Ashgrove Road West, AB25 2ZD.

Barrow earned his academic qualifications entirely from the University of Aberdeen: a BSc(Hons) in Biochemistry (2002), PhD in Molecular Biology (2005), and PGCert in Higher Education (2011). He was awarded Senior Fellow status with the Higher Education Academy in 2015. His academic career at Aberdeen has progressed from Postdoctoral research scientist (2005-2009), through Teaching Fellow (2009-2013) and Senior Teaching Fellow (2013-2015), to Senior Lecturer (Scholarship) (2015-2021), before becoming Professor in 2021.

Professor Barrow's research primarily focuses on innovative approaches to biochemistry education, with particular emphasis on virtual reality and immersive learning technologies. His work bridges traditional biochemical knowledge with cutting-edge educational methodologies, creating engaging learning experiences for students. He has pioneered the use of virtual reality for teaching complex biochemical concepts such as the citric acid cycle and molecular structures. Additionally, his research extends to graduate attributes development, employability skills, and entrepreneurship education, reflecting his dual role as both educator and Dean for Employability and Entrepreneurship.

Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong trend toward educational technology and innovative teaching methods, particularly virtual and augmented reality applications in biochemistry education. His work spans molecular biology education, skills development, and the integration of enterprise and entrepreneurship into the academic curriculum. While his earlier career included more traditional molecular biology research on topics like gene promoters and receptor pathways, his recent focus has shifted predominantly toward educational innovation.

His professional recognition includes:

• Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (2015)

As Dean for Employability and Entrepreneurship, Professor Barrow oversees initiatives that connect academic learning with real-world applications, including the ABDN Grad Challenge and Hack 2040 ideathon events. His work focuses on developing students' enterprise skills and preparing them for diverse career paths. He has been instrumental in creating programs like the Employability Boost Award, designed to enhance students' career readiness through structured skill development.

Professor Barrow is actively involved in curriculum development at the University of Aberdeen, particularly in transforming and embedding graduate attributes across programs. His leadership extends to external examiner roles for institutions in Pakistan and reviewing for major academic publishers and journals. His innovative approach to education has positioned him as a leader in educational technology within the medical and biochemical sciences.