Dr. Robert Crawford, biomodal , United Kingdom
Dr. Robert Crawford, MEng, DPhil (Oxon), is a distinguished multi-disciplinary scientist and engineer with over 13 years of experience in the life sciences. His expertise spans the development, integration, and verification of DNA sequencing technologies, with a strong focus on genomic and epigenomic applications. He currently serves as Associate Director of Collaborations and Applications at biomodal, where he leads scientific and informatics teams to drive innovation and strategic partnerships. Previously, he played a key role at Illumina in integrating whole-genome sequencing solutions for in vitro diagnostics. Dr. Crawford’s academic journey began at the University of Oxford, where he earned a DPhil in Condensed Matter Physics and contributed to the foundational IP of Oxford Nanoimaging. His research has led to multiple high-impact publications, patents, and conference presentations. Passionate about scientific discovery and translational research, he continues to shape the future of epigenetics and molecular diagnostics.
Publication Profile:
Orcid
Strengths for the Award:
✅ Expertise in Epigenetics & Genomics – Dr. Robert Crawford has extensive experience in genomic and epigenomic sequencing, particularly in integrating DNA modifications like 5-methylcytosine and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine as biomarkers. His recent publications in Nature Structural & Molecular Biology demonstrate his contributions to the field.
✅ Industry & Academic Impact – His transition from academia to industry has resulted in high-impact research, patents, and product development. At biomodal, he leads teams working on sequencing applications relevant to cell biology and epigenetics.
✅ Innovation & Translational Research – He co-invented a single-molecule microscope (now a spin-out, Oxford Nanoimaging), showcasing his ability to translate fundamental research into real-world applications.
✅ Collaborative Leadership – His role at biomodal involves leading collaborations with academic and commercial partners, demonstrating his ability to foster research in epigenetics and molecular diagnostics.
Areas for Improvement:
🔹 Further Independent Research – While his collaborative research is significant, leading an independent research program in epigenetics would further strengthen his case for this award.
🔹 Expanded Focus on Cell Biology Applications – While his work heavily focuses on DNA modifications, a deeper exploration into how these modifications impact broader cellular mechanisms could enhance his profile.
Education:
Dr. Robert Crawford obtained his DPhil (Oxon) in Condensed Matter Physics from St John’s College, University of Oxford, where he investigated single-molecule DNA sensors and transcription factor dynamics. His research was conducted under the supervision of Prof. Achilles Kapanidis in the Gene Machines Group. Prior to his doctorate, he completed interdisciplinary training at Oxford’s Life Sciences Interface Doctoral Training Centre, covering computational biology, medical imaging, biophysics, and bioinformatics. His undergraduate education culminated in an MEng in a related field, equipping him with strong analytical and engineering skills. Dr. Crawford’s academic foundation has been instrumental in his contributions to DNA sequencing technologies, super-resolution imaging, and epigenetics. His work at Oxford also led to the invention of a compact single-molecule microscope, which later became the basis for the spin-out Oxford Nanoimaging. His rigorous scientific background enables him to bridge fundamental research and commercial biotechnology applications.
Experience:
Dr. Robert Crawford’s professional career has spanned academia and industry, with a focus on genomics, epigenetics, and molecular diagnostics. At biomodal, he serves as Associate Director of Collaborations and Applications, leading teams in commercial and academic partnerships, technology demonstrations, and strategic initiatives. Previously, he spent nearly a decade at Illumina, where he played a key role in integrating end-to-end in vitro diagnostic whole-genome sequencing solutions. His expertise in troubleshooting, large-scale data analysis, and verification test planning has contributed to the successful deployment of cutting-edge sequencing platforms. In academia, he was a Research Fellow at the University of Oxford, pioneering single-molecule imaging techniques and co-inventing a compact microscope for biosensing. This work laid the groundwork for Oxford Nanoimaging, now a leading biotech company. Dr. Crawford’s blend of research innovation and industry execution has made him a driving force in the advancement of sequencing technologies.
Awards and Honors:
Dr. Robert Crawford has received several prestigious awards and research grants in recognition of his contributions to life sciences and engineering. In 2013, he was awarded a Junior Research Fellowship at Linacre College, University of Oxford, supporting his groundbreaking work in single-molecule microscopy. His postdoctoral research attracted over £160,000 in funding, including a £120,000 DSTL grant from the UK Ministry of Defence, a £10,000 BBSRC Sparking Impact award, and an EPSRC PhD Plus Scholarship worth £24,000. Additionally, he secured BBSRC Follow-on Funding through the Pathfinder scheme (£10,000) to advance the commercialization of his research. His patented work on compact microscopy led to the founding of Oxford Nanoimaging, which has raised over $109.4 million in funding. Through these achievements, Dr. Crawford has demonstrated a consistent ability to translate high-impact research into real-world applications, making him a strong contender for the Research for Epigenetics in Cell Biology Award.
Research Focus:
Dr. Robert Crawford’s research centers on the intersection of genomics, epigenetics, and molecular diagnostics, with a particular emphasis on developing and optimizing sequencing technologies. His work at biomodal explores the synergistic role of DNA modifications, such as 5-methylcytosine and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine, as biomarkers for early cancer detection. His recent studies highlight the critical regulatory function of OGT in global DNA methylation and transposable element suppression, advancing the understanding of epigenomic stability. During his time at Oxford, he developed a single-molecule fluorescence microscope for studying intracellular transcription factors, leading to significant breakthroughs in live-cell imaging. His research has been widely published in top-tier journals and has contributed to the development of cutting-edge sequencing workflows. With a strong commitment to translational science, Dr. Crawford’s work continues to push the boundaries of epigenetic research, making impactful contributions to early disease detection and precision medicine.
Publications Top Notes:
📌 2025 – 5-methylcytosine and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine are synergistic biomarkers for early detection of colorectal cancer – Nat Struct Mol Biol
🧬 2025 – OGT is a key regulator of global DNA methylation – Nat Struct Mol Biol
🧬 2025 – OGT prevents DNA demethylation and suppresses transposable elements in heterochromatin – Nat Struct Mol Biol (Accepted)
🔬 2015 – Compact Microscope – WO 2015059682 A1 (Founding IP for Oxford Nanoimaging)
💡 2013 – Long Lived Intracellular Single-molecule Fluorescence Using Electroporated Molecules – Biophys. J.
🧬 2013 – Non-covalent Single Transcription Factor Encapsulation Inside a DNA Cage – Angew Chem.
Conclusion:
Dr. Robert Crawford is an outstanding candidate for the Research for Epigenetics in Cell Biology Award due to his extensive expertise in genomic and epigenomic sequencing, strong research track record, and ability to bridge fundamental science with commercial applications. With his leadership in sequencing technology development and impactful publications, he is well-positioned to make continued contributions to epigenetics and cell biology. 🚀