Ian Winfield

Currently working within the Biology department, overseeing the running of HTS projects, and undertaking assay development to produce robust biochemical and cell-based assays that are suitable for high-throughput screening. This is a client-facing role which involves collaboration with clients on a global scale. In addition to my project-focused role, I am also involved in the preparation of project proposals for prospective clients, utilising my wide range of biological, pharmacological and assay technology knowledge, to provide innovative and cutting edge project proposals. Further, I am heavily involved in the training and mentoring of junior staff and provide a strong input into the company's apprenticeship scheme, aiding in the development of the next generation of drug discovery scientists. As part of my laboratory work, I am heavily involved in the use of radioactivity for drug discovery purposes. Thus, I have also become a member of the Radiation Protection Supervisor team, responsible for ensuring the safety of all involved in radioactive work, as well as making sure the relevant legal legislation is enacted and followed.

I was initially employed at Charles River Laboratories as a member of the biology department within Early Discovery. My role entailed running HTS projects for clients, as well as assay development. As part of working within a CRO environment I was frequently involved in project meetings with various clients across the globe, presenting the latest available project data and updating on project progression.

As part of my post-doctoral research I was involved in several projects all focused upon GPCR pharmacology. My work focused upon the identification and quantification of ligand bias of both family A and B GPCRs. This entailed the use of secondary messenger assays such as Ca2+ mobilisation, cAMP accumulation, pERK1/2 and radioligand binding assays. This work primarily focused upon the A1R and CLR, but also encapsulated other family A and B GPCRs. Furthermore, I was also involved in a project seeking to identify of selective A2aR agonists, which had dual-activity as PDE inhibitors. As part of my role as a post-doc I was also heavily involved in the day-to-day supervision and mentoring of undergraduate and postgraduate students.