The School of Life Sciences at the University of Dundee is delighted to announce the appointment of Professor John D. Scott, FRS, to an Honorary Professorship. A world-renowned biochemist and leader in the field of intracellular signalling, Professor Scott brings with him an extraordinary record of scientific discovery, academic leadership, and global collaboration.
Currently serving as the Edwin G. Krebs-Speights Professor of Cell Signalling and Cancer Biology and Chair of Pharmacology at the University of Washington, Professor Scott has transformed the field’s understanding of protein phosphorylation through his seminal work on A-Kinase Anchoring Proteins (AKAPs). His discovery and characterization of AKAPs have revealed how these scaffolding proteins spatially and temporally organize signal transduction, laying the foundation for the “signalling island” concept that now underpins modern cellular signalling theory.
Through innovative use of approaches spanning molecular biology, structural biochemistry, and live-cell imaging, Professor Scott has shown how AKAPs regulate localized enzyme activity and shape cellular responses. His research has had a profound impact on disease biology, with implications for cardiovascular conditions, diabetes, and cancer, and has inspired new precision medicine strategies targeting AKAP–PKA interactions.
Professor Scott’s influence extends far beyond the laboratory. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society (London), a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh, and a Foreign Member of the Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters. His distinguished career has been recognized with numerous accolades, including the 2024 ASPET Julius Axelrod Award and the John J. Abel Award.
In addition to his scientific achievements, Professor Scott is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion in science. He actively works to address implicit bias and promote gender equity in STEM, fostering inclusive environments for researchers at all stages of their careers.
His global impact is further demonstrated by his service on scientific advisory boards across the USA, UK, Europe, Asia, and Australia, and his commitment to nurturing international collaborations and academic exchanges.
Professor Scott’s appointment strengthens Dundee’s position as a global hub for research in signal transduction and protein regulation. The University community warmly welcomes him and looks forward to the opportunities this collaboration will bring.
John Scott stated “I am deeply humbled and honoured to be recognized by the University of Dundee. Dundee scientists and members of the School of Life Sciences have made outstanding discoveries that have been a guiding light for the rest of the world. I am extremely grateful to become associated with this prestigious group”.
Paul Davies, Interim Dean of The School of Life Sciences said " Professor Scott's interdisciplinary approach to tackling major questions in medical research will contribute enormously to our School’s focus on making discoveries with major societal impact. I and all the researchers in our School are looking forward to working with this exceptional leader in intracellular signalling."