Introducing James Warren - new research assistant in our department

We interviewed James Warren, a research assistant in Biochemistry who joined our staff in October.

Can you tell me a little about your background?

I grew up in Bath and came to Imperial in 2018 to study biochemistry. Following my undergrad, I then completed an MRes in Structural Molecular Biology, where I joined Professor Thomas Meier’s group for both my rotations. I completed this in September and have now started as a research assistant in the Meier group. 

Can you tell us a bit about your study prior to now?

In my Masters project I was carrying out structural characterisation of bacterial ATP synthase using cryo-EM. The ATP synthase is an interesting target since it is essential for survival in some bacterial species, including Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and can therefore act as a potential therapeutic target. 

What is your new role at Imperial?

In my new role I am continuing the project I carried out in my Masters to fully structurally characterise my target protein. In addition to finishing this work, I am also now supervising Masters students who are completing their own projects on similar ATP synthase. 

What motivated you to work in this area?

My interest in structural biology began in my undergraduate degree, when I carried out a literature review on the ‘resolution revolution’ in cryogenic electron microscopy. I was captivated by the ability of this technique to elucidate high resolution details of previously intractable proteins so wanted to use this technique in my own research.

What attracted you to working in Life Sciences at Imperial?

I really enjoyed being part of the wonderful community of researchers during my masters and had always admired the impressive research output of the department. Therefore, I was very keen to join and contribute to this following the completion of my MRes.

Tell us an interesting/unusual fact about yourself.

I once won £200 on a TV show called ‘In for a Penny’ by playing a game of charades.