Roger Thomas was internationally recognised for his pioneering work on the development of ion-sensitive microelectrodes. He invented the recessed tip electrode, allowing tip diameters of less than 1 micrometre and so permitting the use of these electrodes in a wider range of cells.
He used these microelectrode techniques to characterise the electrogenic sodium pump in neurons and has become an authority on intracellular pH and calcium regulation in large snail nerve cells. His methods have now largely been superseded by optical techniques and fluorescent indicators. His own experiments involve recording many variables simultaneously from single cells.
Professor Roger Thomas FRS died on 17 December 2024.
Professional position
- Emeritus Professor of Physiology, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge
Subject groups
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Multicellular Organisms
Physiology incl biophysics of cells (non-clinical)
