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Fellows Directory

Ian Parker

Ian Parker

Professor Ian Parker FRS

Fellow


Elected: 2008

Biography

Ian Parker’s innovative and technically exquisite experiments have explored how calcium ions transmit signals within the cells of the nervous system. He has measured the timing, spatial distribution and volume of calcium release within a single cell, from brief and localized release to concerted ‘waves’.

Resting cells contain very little calcium, but signalling molecules open membrane channels that let in more calcium, with a wide range of rapid effects. Ian has developed ‘caged’ signalling compounds that can be activated with a flash of light, allowing him to capture images of the calcium influx with high-resolution fluorescence microscopy.

With roles in muscle contraction, neurotransmission and cell death, calcium signalling is fundamental to health and disease. In recognition of his contribution to understanding this process, Ian was elected a Fellow of American Association for the Advancement of Science and received a prestigious MERIT Award from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences.

Professional positions

Professor of Neurobiology and Behaviour, Department Of Neurobiology and Behaviour, University of California, Irvine

Interest and expertise

Subject groups

  • Anatomy, physiology and neurosciences
    • Physiology incl biophysics of cells (non-clinical)

Keywords

calcium signaling, fluorescence microscopy, superresolution, immunoimaging

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