Vincent O'Connor

Professor Vincent O'Connor is a Professor of Neurochemistry in the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Southampton. His research focuses on synaptic function/dysfunction, neurodegeneration, and translational neurobiology using C. elegans as a model organism. He has held academic positions since 1999, progressing from Lecturer to Professor. His work integrates molecular biology, genetics, and pharmacology to address clinical challenges such as organophosphate poisoning and neurodegenerative diseases.

Research Interests: Molecular mechanisms of synaptic biology, genetic models of neuronal dysfunction, and drug development targeting synaptic proteins. Current projects include neurodegeneration studies, antihelminthic drug discovery, and organophosphate intoxication mitigation strategies.

Teaching Contributions: Contributes to undergraduate/postgraduate programs in Neuroscience, Pharmacology, and Molecular Biology. Leads advanced modules like Advanced Neuroscience (Biol 6084) and supervises BSc/MSc research projects.

Grants and Collaborations: Principal investigator on projects funded by MRC, BBSRC, Alzheimer's Society, and industry partners like Bayer Animal Health. Active in interdisciplinary initiatives such as the Neuroscience Institute for Life Sciences.