Professor Tim Dafforn

Supervisor Details

Contact Details

School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham

Scientific Background

Research Interests

Over the past 2 billion years life has been evolving to produce the wonderful biological diversity we see today. At the molecular level evolution has produced nano-molecular machines of wonderful complexity. Tim’s research is focused upon studying these wonders, understanding how they assemble and harnessing their function for good. Currently his studies have three streams of research:

Studying and understanding the complex molecular machinery that underlies bacterial cell division.
Developing novel nanoencapsulation methods that allow large scale production of membrane proteins.
Building nano-assemblies that can be used in detection systems

The last two of these projects have provided seven patents that are currently the focus of two commercialisation projects.

Scientific Inspiration

Richard Feynman, Nobel prize winner and Bongo player.. Need I say more!

Research Groups

Structural and Molecular Cell Biology

Supervision Style

In three words or phrases: Collaborative, Inspirational, Empathic.

Provision of Training

Members of my laboratory will help with appropriate technical training at first but later in the Phd I am very supportive of you searching out relevant training opportunities (including at international training events).

Progression Monitoring and Management

I like to be kept up to date with developments in your project. Initially on a regular weekly basis but as you gain more independence I find it best to discuss results and problems on a more dynamic basis.

Communication

The team has a WhatsApp group chat with which we regularly communicate. We generally work as a team so WhatsApp provides a good platform for discussing everything from science and results to the latest developments in Love Island.

PhD Students can expect scheduled meetings with me:

In a group meeting

At least once a fortnight

In year 1 of PhD study

At least once a week

In year 2 of PhD study

At least once a fortnight

In year 3 of PhD study

At least once a fortnight

These meetings will be mainly face to face, and I am usually contactable for an instant response every working day.

Working Patterns

The timing of work in my lab is completely flexible, and (other than attending pre-arranged meetings), I expect students to manage their own time.

Notice Period for Feedback

I need at least 1 week’s notice to provide feedback on written work of up to 5000 words.

MIBTP Project Details

Previous Projects (2024-25)

Primary supervisor for:

CASE: Cell-Free production of membrane protein targets underpinning agrichemical development Sensing the impossible, an engineering biology approach

Co-supervisor on projects with Dr Sarah Horswell, Dr Nik Hodges, and Professor David I Roper FRSC.

Previous Projects (2023-24)

Primary supervisor for:

Synthetic Biology Approaches to Sensing Pathogenic Viruses and Narcotics