Dr. John Allingham

Biography

John Allingham is a Professor in the School of Medicine at Queen's University, specializing in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. His research interests focus on understanding the mechanical properties of the cytoskeleton and cytoskeleton-binding motor proteins. His laboratory aims to elucidate force-generating mechanisms of proteins and their roles in cellular processes including mitotic spindle assembly and cell migration. He applies various techniques such as biochemical assays, molecular genetics, and advanced imaging methods like X-ray crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy to investigate dynamic structures and develop new actin-targeting compounds for cancer treatment. With an education spanning a B.Sc. and Ph.D. in Biochemistry from the University of Western Ontario and a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Wisconsin, Allingham has made significant contributions to the field of structural biology, focusing on kinesins and their regulatory mechanisms in pathogenic fungi such as Candida albicans. He also leads initiatives to enhance expertise in synthetic biology among undergraduate students.

Research Interests