Dr Ryan Brown
Lecturer
Biography
I am a lecturer in stem cells and regenerative medicine with a strong background in biochemistry. I currently run the MSc Stem Cell program (level 7) at the University of Chester, where I serve as the module lead for all courses within the program. My active research interests centre on understanding how sphingolipids regulate adipocyte function and the development of diseases like obesity and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. My research uses animal models and adipose-derived stem cells to study the role of sphingolipids in metabolic diseases such as obesity and liver disease. Before joining Chester, I was a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Virginia Commonwealth University in the USA. During my time there, I contributed to significant research exploring the role of sphingolipids in metabolic disease and neurodegenerative diseases like Niemann-Pick Type C. Before this, I completed my PhD at the University of Strathclyde, where I investigated the molecular regulation of sphingosine kinase 1. I obtained my MSc in neuroscience from UCL where I contributed to research demonstrating the involvement of axonal mitochondria dysfunction for the development of diabetic neuropathy. My BSc was from the University of Nottingham in Animal Science. My diverse background and research experience (active since 2017) in multiple countries has allowed me to advise students on career progression throughout my time. I’m also passionate about teaching and mentoring. I have extensive experience guiding undergraduate, postgraduate students and postdoctoral researchers, and I’m committed to helping students develop both their research skills and academic confidence. I’m a member of several professional organizations, including the Sphingolipid Club and the Royal Society of Biology, and I enjoy engaging in outreach activities to inspire the next generation of scientists.