Martin Humphries

Martin Humphries is a Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Manchester, leading the Division of Cell Matrix Biology & Regenerative Medicine. His research focuses on stromal rigidity-driven pancreatic cancer cell proliferation, integrin signaling, and extracellular matrix (ECM) dynamics. He serves on the Academy of Medical Sciences as a former Vice-President (2012–2017) and contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals targeting health and well-being.

• Expertise: Integrin-mediated adhesion, ECM mechanics, cancer biology
• Key Projects: BHF 4-Year PhD Studentship Award (2017–2021)

His research explores how ECM rigidity influences tumor progression via mechanosensing pathways, with implications for therapies targeting force-sensing mechanisms. Recent work includes studies on Nrf2-mediated endothelial detachment and lineage plasticity in small cell lung cancer.

• Awards: Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences (FMedSci)

He oversees 22 supervised works and collaborates globally, publishing 269 articles. Datasets include proteomic analyses of adhesion complexes and pancreatic ductal cells. His lab develops novel methods to study adhesion nexus signaling in 3D organoid models.