Tuomas Knowles

Prof. Tuomas Knowles is a Professor of Physical Chemistry and Biophysics at the University of Cambridge, affiliated with the Department of Chemistry and the Maxwell Centre. His research focuses on the physical and chemical principles of biomolecular assembly, particularly protein self-assembly and its role in health and disease. Key areas include the study of biopolymers, soft matter systems, and the transition from liquid-liquid phase separation to amyloid fibril formation. Techniques employed include microfluidics, biosensors, and advanced microscopy.

His work bridges fundamental chemical physics and applications in molecular medicine and material science. Current projects investigate lipid-induced α-synuclein aggregation, biomolecular condensates, and the development of diagnostic tools using protein assemblies. Collaborations span multiple disciplines within the University's School of Physical Sciences and the Maxwell Centre's interdisciplinary initiatives.

Notable contributions include understanding mechanisms of protein aggregation in neurodegenerative diseases and designing novel biomaterials for drug delivery. The Knowles Group actively contributes to the Winton Programme for the Physics of Sustainability and other跨学科学术网络.