Matthew Towers

Dr. Matthew Towers is a Reader of Developmental Biology and Wellcome Trust Senior Fellow at the University of Sheffield's School of Biosciences. His research focuses on vertebrate limb development using chick embryo models, with particular emphasis on intrinsic timing mechanisms in embryonic patterning. His work bridges developmental biology, evolutionary studies, and clinical applications for understanding congenital limb malformations and cancer mechanisms.

His research interests center on how complex structures form during embryonic development, specifically investigating:

• How intrinsic cell cycle timers control limb patterning and scaling
• The integration of extrinsic signals (like Sonic hedgehog and Fgf) with intrinsic timing mechanisms
• Evolutionary aspects of limb development across species
• Hypothalamic development through collaborations with Prof. Marysia Placzek

His technical approach combines embryological manipulations with molecular analyses in chick embryos to dissect timing mechanisms in vivo.

Key scientific awards include:

• Wellcome Trust Senior Fellow in Basic Biomedical Science (2017-present)
• MRC Career Development Fellowship (2011-2016)

His lab has secured significant grant funding through these fellowships, supporting research into developmental timing mechanisms. Current lab members include Connie Rich, Holly Stainton, Lara Busby, and Aragorn Jones. The group maintains active collaborations with researchers at the University of Cantabria (Spain) and publishes regularly in high-impact journals including Nature Communications and Development.