Rebecca Burton

Associate Professor Rebecca Burton is a cardiac electrophysiologist in the Department of Pharmacology at the University of Oxford's Medical Sciences Division. Since completing her DPhil in 2006, she has led research on cardiac arrhythmias with focus on lysosomal calcium signaling and hydroxychloroquine's effects on heart rhythm. Her group of approximately 10 researchers employs novel imaging methods and traditional pharmacology techniques to study cardiac function.

Her research interests center on cardiac arrhythmia mechanisms, particularly the role of lysosomal calcium stores in atrial fibrillation. She investigates cAMP-Ca²⁺ cross talk in atrial nanodomains, IP3 receptor signaling, and acidic organelle function in cardiomyocytes. Her work bridges basic science with translational applications through collaborations with clinicians across disciplines.

Her 15 most recent publications (2022-2025) demonstrate consistent focus on lysosomal calcium signaling in cardiac rhythm regulation, with particular emphasis on atrial-specific mechanisms. Key themes include compartmentalized cAMP signaling, NAADP-mediated calcium release, and the role of endolysosomal networks in atrial fibrillation pathophysiology.

Scientific recognition includes:

• Winston Churchill Medal for contributions to Science and Technology (2015-2016)
• Sir Henry Dale Fellowship supporting her ambitious interdisciplinary research

Beyond research, Burton serves in teaching roles including examination setting and marking, provides pastoral care at her college, and actively engages in public outreach through events like the Science Museum Lates. She has advocated for improved career pathways for early-career researchers and greater equality of opportunity in academia.

Her laboratory specializes in advanced cardiac optical mapping, lysosomal calcium imaging, and multi-disciplinary approaches to studying the neuro-cardiac axis, with particular focus on how sympathetic neuronal activity affects cardiac conduction and arrhythmia susceptibility.