Phil Williamson

Professor Phil Williamson is a Professor and Head of School at the University of Southampton. His research focuses on molecular processes underlying neurodegenerative diseases, cell membrane structure/function, and advanced biophysical techniques like solid-state NMR. He leads interdisciplinary projects in collaboration with institutes such as the Precision Biosciences Innovation Hub and the Institute for Life Sciences.

Education & Career: Phil Williamson holds a Wellcome Trust Fellowship and has led major research initiatives, including the UK High Field Solid-State NMR National Research Facility. His work bridges biological systems analysis with technological innovation, particularly in high-field NMR applications.

Research Interests: His studies investigate how cellular environments influence protein fibril formation (e.g., Alzheimer’s/Parkinson’s) and lipid-protein interactions in membranes. Techniques developed under his guidance include ultra-high field NMR and hyperpolarization methods for in-vivo protein conformation analysis.

Grants & Projects: Active grants include EPSRC-funded work on 1.2 GHz NMR facilities and antiseptic/drug delivery mechanisms. Completed projects include Wellcome Trust-funded NMR equipment development and metabolomic studies in proteinopathies.

Awards:

• Wellcome Trust Fellowship (Completed Project)

Advising & Labs: Accepts PhD students and oversees labs focused on NMR technology and neurodegenerative disease mechanisms. Collaborates across disciplines in the Interdisciplinary Centre for Magnetic Resonance and Molecular and Precision Biosciences.