Rate My Professor Andrew Beale

Andrew Beale is a Senior Scientist at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Cambridge, where he works in John O’Neill’s group. His research examines how cells and organisms use internal clocks to anticipate their environment, how these systems have evolved across species such as nocturnal and diurnal mammals, and the consequences when biological timing is disrupted. He combines proteomics, cell biology, and evolutionary approaches to investigate the mechanisms of daily cellular timekeeping and the circadian regulation of biological processes. Beale joined the laboratory in 2018 as a postdoctoral scientist and has since advanced to his current senior role. He previously completed a PhD and held an initial position at London’s Science Museum before returning to research. In addition to his laboratory work, Beale served as Public Outreach Fellow with the Society for Research on Biological Rhythms, organising initiatives including a chronobiology Wikithon. His contributions include leading research on the cellular basis for the mammalian nocturnal-diurnal switch, published in Science in 2026.

Beale’s investigations highlight the fundamental role of timing in biology and its relevance to adaptation, disease, and modern lifestyles. He maintains an active interest in public engagement, drawing on his experience to communicate the importance of circadian biology to broader audiences.