John Watts stands as a prominent figure in the field of RNA therapeutics and genome editing, making significant contributions to the development of oligonucleotide drugs and advancing therapeutic applications in challenging areas like the brain and lung. His career trajectory showcases a dedication to scientific advancement, from his early academic achievements in Canada to his current professorship at UMass Chan Medical School.
Watts’ academic journey began at Dalhousie University, where he earned his BSc in 2001, accompanied by the prestigious University Medal in Chemistry. His early research interests were sparked during this time, focusing on carbohydrate synthesis under the guidance of Professor Bruce Grindley. Following his undergraduate studies, Watts broadened his horizons with a year in the non-profit sector in Cote d’Ivoire, an experience that likely shaped his perspective before returning to the scientific realm.
His pursuit of advanced knowledge led him back to Canada and McGill University, where he obtained his PhD in 2008 under the mentorship of Professor Masad Damha. During his doctoral studies, John Watts delved into innovative areas, including the creation of novel oligonucleotide analogues and investigating the high binding affinity of 2′-fluorinated oligonucleotides. His research also extended to the chemical modification of antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) and small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), crucial components in RNA-based therapeutics.
Continuing his postdoctoral research at UT Southwestern in Professor David Corey’s lab, John Watts further honed his expertise. His work there involved the chemical modification of promoter-targeted duplex RNAs and the application of oligonucleotide-oligospermine conjugates as both antisense and antigene oligonucleotides. This period solidified his foundation in the chemical manipulation of nucleic acids for therapeutic purposes.
In 2012, Dr. John Watts established his independent research group at the University of Southampton in the UK, marking the beginning of his leadership in the field. His early career success was quickly recognized with the 2013 Young Investigator Award from the Oligonucleotide Therapeutics Society, a testament to his promising contributions. Further recognition came in 2015 with the Vice Chancellor’s Award for teaching, highlighting his commitment to education and mentorship alongside his research endeavors.
The summer of 2015 marked a pivotal point in John Watts’ career as he was recruited to the esteemed RNA Therapeutics Institute at UMass Chan Medical School. His continued excellence in research and leadership led to his appointment as Professor in 2022. Currently, the Watts lab is at the forefront of optimizing oligonucleotide therapeutics, particularly for delivery and efficacy in the brain and lung – areas notoriously challenging for drug delivery. His lab is also dedicated to enhancing the effectiveness and versatility of genome editing tools for therapeutic applications, reflecting a forward-thinking approach to cutting-edge genetic medicine.
The impact of John Watts’ research extends to both platform technology development and disease-specific applications. Notably, his work has contributed to the advancement of multiple oligonucleotide drugs that have reached patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) through investigator-initiated trials, demonstrating the real-world impact of his scientific contributions. His extensive body of work is documented in over 75 publications, which have garnered over 5000 citations, underscoring the significant influence of his research within the scientific community. Beyond research articles, John Watts also shares his knowledge and expertise as a co-editor of the widely recognized textbook “Nucleic Acids in Chemistry and Biology,” 4th Edition (Blackburn, Egli, Gait and Watts, 2022), further solidifying his role as a thought leader in the field.
John Watts’ career is characterized by a consistent drive to push the boundaries of RNA therapeutics and genome editing. His dedication to developing innovative solutions for challenging diseases and his commitment to both research and education position him as a leading expert shaping the future of nucleic acid-based therapies.
