Mentor Profile for Contract Research Staff Department of Chemistry Mentor Profile Last Updated: 25 November 2013 Professor Chris Abell FMedSci Professor in Biological Chemistry Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge Director of Postdoctoral Affairs College Affiliation: Christ’s College Research Interest Group: Biological For more information, please visit: wwwabell.ch.cam.ac.uk About Me I came to Cambridge as an undergraduate and stayed on to do a PhD in biological chemistry. I then did a short postdoc at Brown University in the USA, before returning to Cambridge as a University Demonstrator. I was subsequently promoted through the various levels to professor. I run a large research group in the department, and have significant entrepreneurial interests outside. I cofounded several companies including Astex, Sphere Fluidics and Aqdot, and was a founding director of Cambridge Enterprise. In 2013 I was appointed to be the first Director of Postdoctoral Affairs in the University. In this role I am very involved in improving many aspects of the postdoctoral experience in Cambridge. My Research Interests I am very excited about doing multidisciplinary research. I have a longstanding interest in developing fragmentbased methods for the discovery of novel ligands for macromolecules. We have a particular focus on molecules that modulate proteinprotein interactions, and also inhibitors of enzymes from Mycobacterium tuberculosis . The second major area of interest is in developing microdroplets as an experimental platform. This involves me in topics as diverse as novel encapsulation technologies and algal biofuels. Mentoring Support I Can Provide • Topics included in my research interests above • Researchrelated issues: project management/time management • Other workrelated issues: people management/conflict resolution • Career development and progression: career values, aspirations, training and paths • Career development and progression: routes to academic careers • Career development and progression: routes to industry careers • Widening your support network • Provide motivation, confidence and inspiration Mentoring Availability and Contact • Please email me directly at: [email protected]