
Ian A. Graham, FRS
Professor
University of York
Professor Ian A Graham FRS is based at the University of York, Ian is currently Head of the Biology Department (https://www.york.ac.uk/biology/), and Weston Chair of Biochemical Genetics, with his research team in the Department’s Centre for Novel Agricultural Products (www.york.ac.uk/biology/centrefornovelagriculturalproducts/). During his career Ian has made significant contributions to our understanding of plant metabolism and seed biology. His laboratory led the way in the genetic dissection of lipid mobilization in Arabidopsis oilseeds and discovery of a role for oxylipins in controlling seed germination. His most recent research has shed new light on the production of small molecule natural products from plants such as the anti-cancer compound noscapine, morphinan-based analgesics such as codeine and morphine and the antimalarial drug artemisinin. Ian also leads the BBSRC funded High Value Chemicals from Plants Network in Industrial Biotechnology and Bioenergy (hvcfp.net). Funding for Ian’s research comes from a range of sources including industry, UK Government including BBSRC, EU, UK and overseas charities.
In 2016 Ian was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS) and member of the European Molecular Biology Organisation (EMBO). He has also been awarded the Biochemical Society’s 2017 Heatley Medal and Prize for exceptional work in applying advances in biochemistry, particularly in developing practical uses that have created widespread benefits and value for society.