Alan Watson

Biography

After completing a degree in Zoology at Edinburgh University, I carried out my PhD on biogenic amine containing neurons of the teleost brain and autonomic innervation of the visceral organs, at the Gatty Marine lab of St. Andrews University. I then spent 9 years at Cambridge University with Malcolm Burrows, investigating the nature and distribution of synapses on identified neurones in the locust central nervous system. During this period I held a Beit Memorial Fellowship and was ultimately was supported by my own MRC grant. I was appointed to a lectureship in Anatomy in Cardiff in 1989 and became a senior lecturer in 1995.

Research Interest

Current research in the lab is focused on various aspects of spinal cord circuitry. This includes presynaptic inhibition of sensory neurones and the effect of ageing on pathways that control the lower pelvic viscera and pelvic floor. The latter is directed at changes in the central and peripheral components of autonomic visceral innervation, the somatic innervation of the pelvic floor, and the descending pathways that control them. I am also involved in public engagement in science. My particular interest is in providing courses for musicians on the biological principles underlying performance and performance-related injury. This also includes research projects into respiration in musicians. My book on the Biology of Musical Performance and Performance Related Injury was published in 2009. This work received a Maximising Impact Award from the School in 2010.