Martin Playford
About Martin Playford
Martin Playford is a Staff Scientist and Director of Translational Science at the National Institutes of Health, where he has worked since 2006. He specializes in the role of innate immunity and inflammation in cardiovascular and metabolic diseases and has a background in molecular medicine and biochemistry.
Work at National Institutes of Health
Martin Playford has been employed at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) since 2006. He holds the position of Staff Scientist and has contributed to various research initiatives for 18 years. In addition, he has served as the Director of Translational Science since 2007, overseeing projects that bridge laboratory research and clinical applications. His work includes developing a bio-specimen management inventory system for patient biopsy samples, which enhances the efficiency of sample tracking and usage in research.
Education and Expertise
Martin Playford earned his Ph.D. in Cell and Molecular Biology from the Institute of Molecular Medicine at the University of Oxford, where he studied from 1997 to 2000. Prior to this, he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry from Dundee University, completing his studies from 1989 to 1993. His academic background provides a strong foundation for his research focus on innate immunity and inflammation in cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.
Postdoctoral Experience
Prior to his current role at the NIH, Martin Playford completed two postdoctoral fellowships. He worked at Duke University from 2001 to 2003 for two years, followed by a position at the University of North Carolina from 2003 to 2006 for three years. These experiences contributed to his development as a researcher and prepared him for his ongoing work in translational science.
Research Contributions
At the NIH, Martin Playford focuses his research on the role of innate immunity and inflammation in cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. He is involved in writing standard operating procedures (SOPs) and animal protocols for laboratory operations, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Additionally, he collaborates with architects for the construction and equipment installation of new laboratory spaces, enhancing the research environment.