Inaugural Professorial Lecture – Professor Peter Jones

Dr Jones and the calcium of doom
About Professor Peter Jones' research:
Pete’s research looks at how calcium controls the function of cardiac cells and neurons. Specifically, he aims to understand how changes in calcium signalling leads to arrhythmias, heart failure, seizures, and Alzheimer’s disease. Pete does this by utilising state-of-the-art microscopy to image individual proteins within cells to observe when, and how, they release calcium.

Graduating from the University of Leeds, Pete pursued an early research career in Canada before moving to Otago. He is co-director of the HeartOtago research theme, a group of cardiovascular researchers, clinicians, and cardiothoracic surgeons, who use human tissue to specifically address cardiovascular diseases impacting the lives of patients in Aotearoa.

Pete has a passion for engaging with the community via HeartOtago and his role as a board member of the New Zealand International Science Festival. His research is funded by the Health Research Council, Royal Society Marsden Fund, the Heart Foundation, and the Neurological Foundation.

Refreshments will be served after the lecture.