Murray Cairns

Professor Murray Cairns is a Professor at the University of Newcastle's School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, specializing in molecular and cellular biology, genomics, and systems biology. His research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying complex disorders such as schizophrenia and neurological diseases, aiming to develop targeted therapies and prevention strategies. He holds a PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics from the University of New South Wales.

His career includes roles at the Schizophrenia Research Institute and Johnson and Johnson Research, where he explored gene-targeting therapies and genomic variation in disease. His work integrates high-throughput genomics, bioinformatics, and epigenetics to uncover disease mechanisms and identify drug targets.

Key research interests include microRNA regulation in neurodevelopment, the role of non-coding RNA in disease, and systems biology approaches to study heterogeneity in complex disorders. He collaborates internationally and leads a lab investigating precision medicine and genomic approaches to mental health.

Notable achievements include contributions to understanding circRNA and ageing, microRNA dysregulation in psychiatric disorders, and leveraging genomic data for drug repurposing. His lab also explores polygenic risk and pharmacological interventions tailored to individual genetic profiles.