Dr Jonathan Nixon-Abell

I began my research career in 2012 with a joint PhD in the labs of Prof. Kirsten Harvey (UCL) and Dr. Craig Blackstone (NIH/Harvard) studying how organelle shaping impacts neuronal health. I went on to do postdoctoral work as an HHMI Visiting Fellow in the lab of Jennifer Lippincott-Schwartz (HHMI Janelia), before moving back to the UK as a Sir Henry Wellcome Fellow in the lab of Peter St George-Hyslop (Cambridge). My postdoctoral work focussed on identifying new mechanisms by which organelles can communicate and how these processes are corrupted in neurological disease. I established an independent research group in 2024 supported by a Wellcome Career Development Award at the Cambridge Institute for Medical Research. My lab studies the dynamics and interactions of organelles within neurons, and how these processes are disrupted in neurodegenerative diseases. 

Project/study information 

In the JNA lab we develop and use new microscopy and omics approaches to understand the mechanisms by which organelles are shaped, moved and communicate in neurons. These processes are essential for neurons to function and are corrupted in neurodegenerative diseases such as such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and motor neuron disease. 

Recruitment of PhD / Post doctoral students 

We are always looking for motivated and curious students/postdocs to join our team. Feel free to reach out to jjn36@cam.ac.uk to enquire about potential vacancies.