Jonathan Ashmore

Jonathan Felix Ashmore is a prominent British physicist and the Bernard Katz Professor of Biophysics at University College London (UCL). Born in 1948, he has made significant contributions to the field of auditory research, particularly focusing on the cellular mechanisms of hearing within the cochlea.

Academic Background and Research Focus

Ashmore has been involved in research related to hearing mechanisms since 1980. His work primarily investigates the role of outer hair cells in the cochlea, which are crucial for sound amplification. These cells function as fast "motor" cells, acting as actuators that enhance sound signals entering the ear. His research has revealed that these outer hair cells change their shape in response to electrical stimulation, a process linked to a specific molecule known as prestin, discovered in 2000 .14

Professional Experience

In addition to his current role at UCL, Ashmore has previously worked on synaptic mechanisms in the retina at both UCL and the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). His extensive experience spans various aspects of biophysics and neurophysiology .23

Contributions and Recognition

Ashmore's work has garnered him recognition within the scientific community, leading to his election as a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS) and membership in other prestigious organizations such as the Academy of Medical Sciences (FMedSci) and the Royal Society of Biology (FRSB) .4 His research publications reflect a deep commitment to understanding auditory processes, contributing significantly to our knowledge of how hearing works at a cellular level .56

Online Presence

For further insights into his professional background, Ashmore maintains a LinkedIn profile under the username jonathan-ashmore-2124331a, where he shares updates related to his research and academic endeavors .7