Cell and Molecular Biology

The Cell and Molecular Biology Unit encompass multi-disciplinary research investigators involved in identifying the key cellular and molecular components of the auditory and vestibular systems. Our strategic aim is to understand how the function of these components is compromised in hearing loss and balance disorders to help improve diagnosis and develop treatments for patients. We use whole genome, whole transcriptome and cell physiology approaches in cellular, vertebrate and invertebrate models of hearing, as well as in patient groups to reveal disease mechanisms.Current research themes include investigating mechanisms which underlie familial hearing loss, ototoxicity, age-related hearing loss and hearing loss as a risk factor for dementia. 

CMBU Principal Investigators

• Joerg Albert- Professor of Sensory Biology and Biophysics
• Michael Bowl- MRC Senior Non-Clinical Fellow
• Sally Dawson- Professor in Molecular Genetics of Hearing Loss (Head of Unit)
• Jonathan Gale- Professor of Cell Biology
• Dan Jagger-Professor of Cell Physiology
• Marcela Lipovsek- Sir Henry Dale Research Fellow
• Marta Andres Miguel- UKRI Future Leaders Fellow

Affiliate & Emeritus Professors

• Jonathan Ashmore- Bernard Katz Professor of Biophysics
• Andy Forge - Emeritus Professor of Auditory Cell Biology