Education 🎓
Turner obtained his BSc in Biochemistry (1981-1985), with a minor in chemistry. He pursued his Ph.D. in Biophysical Chemistry (1985-1990), specializing in nanosecond time-resolved fluorescence. His post-doctoral research at the University of Alberta (1990-1994) focused on Medical Microbiology and energetics. He later advanced to Assistant Professor at the University of Calgary in 1998, where he became an Associate Professor with tenure in 2002. Turner has since held various academic positions, including Professor a contratto at the University of Verona in Italy (2017). His academic journey reflects a strong focus on interdisciplinary sciences, ranging from biochemistry to microbiology. Turner’s educational background underpins his innovations in biotechnology, microbiological research, and biophysical chemistry, blending theory and practical applications in both environmental and medical sciences.
Experience 🏆
Raymond Turner’s career trajectory includes key academic and research roles. From 1998 to 2001, he served as Assistant Professor of Biochemistry at the University of Calgary, progressing to Associate Professor with tenure (2002-2007) and later full Professor (2007-2019). He contributed advisory services to the Vice-President of Research and Finance (2010-2012) during the university’s restructuring phase. In 2017, he became Professor a contratto at the University of Verona, Italy. Turner’s research contributions span across environmental microbiology, antimicrobial resistance, and bio-nanotechnology. His research has led to more than 45 academic collaborations, 237 published papers, and several patented innovations. Since 2019, he has also been an Adjunct Professor at the University of Bologna, Italy, strengthening his international collaborations and research influence.
Awards and Honors
Turner has received numerous awards for his innovative research in biochemistry, microbiology, and nanotechnology. Among his accolades are industry and academic honors for his pioneering work on metallo-antimicrobials and biofilms. His advisory contributions to the restructuring of the University of Calgary’s research offices earned him commendations for excellence in leadership. Turner’s prolific output of over 237 publications has been recognized by the scientific community, with several awards for his contributions to microbiology and nanotechnology. He has secured over 12 patents, reflecting his ability to translate research discoveries into practical applications. Turner has also been invited to serve in editorial appointments for over 15 scientific journals, further underlining his influence in the field.
Research Focus🔬
Turner’s research is primarily focused on microbial interactions with metals, exploring metallo-antimicrobials to combat antibiotic resistance. His team investigates metal formulations ranging from simple salts to complex nanomaterials, targeting environmental and medical microbes. Turner’s extensive work in the biotechnology of biogenic nanomaterials has led to breakthroughs in eco-friendly synthesis using bacteria and fungi. His current research explores heteroatom nanomaterials involving selenium, tellurium, cadmium, and copper, synthesized by a unique Rhodococcus strain. Another area of focus is microbial biofilms, specifically their resistance to antimicrobials and novel biocides to control biofouling and corrosion on various surfaces. Turner’s contributions to bio-nanotechnology, biofilms, and antimicrobial research position him at the forefront of the field, addressing global challenges related to infection control and bioremediation.
Publication Top Notes
ntimicrobial Activity of Metals: Mechanisms, Molecular Targets, and Applications (2013)
This review explores how metals like silver, copper, and zinc exert antimicrobial effects, targeting microbial membranes, proteins, and DNA. It highlights the potential for metals to combat biofilms and resistant bacteria.
Multimetal Resistance and Tolerance in Microbial Biofilms (2007)
The authors discuss biofilm-forming bacteria’s ability to resist multiple metals, which is a growing problem in medical and industrial contexts. Biofilm structure and metal detoxification mechanisms are key to their survival.
A Novel and Ubiquitous System for Membrane Targeting and Secretion of Cofactor-Containing Proteins (1998)
This paper describes a system for secreting proteins across bacterial membranes, focusing on the role of membrane-targeting mechanisms.
The SMR Family: A Novel Family of Multidrug Efflux Proteins (1996)
This research uncovers a family of proteins that bacteria use to pump out lipophilic drugs, contributing to multidrug resistance.
Microtiter Susceptibility Testing of Microbes Growing on Peg Lids (2010)
This protocol outlines a high-throughput screening method for testing microbial susceptibility, especially for biofilm-growing bacteria.