In the first of a series of articles profiling researchers we speak to Greg King about his search for a cure for asthma, his idea of a perfect day, and what he’d like his tombstone to say.

What’s the issue your research is trying to solve?

The underlying cause of asthma

What have you discovered so far?

Although the cellular and structural changes are widespread, the effects in the small airways and the lung strongly determine asthmatic airway behaviour. These cellular and structural changes are not just inflammation but is based on a process of tissue repair, this is something that is not addressed at all in current treatment.

What’s been your biggest hurdle?

Apart from funding, the biggest research hurdles are the need to obtain airway tissues from asthmatic lungs.

How far is your work from impacting patient care?

Although my own knowledge gained from research determine how I manage patients, in terms of impacting care in a broader way perhaps 5-10 years.

If you could discover one thing in your research, what would it be? (e.g. what’s your holy grail?)

The cure for asthma

What does your perfect day look like?

Exercise in the morning, seeing my patients doing well, hearing either a paper is accepted or exciting new data from my research group, dinner with the family and music in the evening.

If you could keep three possessions what would they be?

Mark Knopfler signature Fender Stratocaster

My photos

1977 Fender Telecaster (only because I don’t have a 1964 Telecaster)

What would you like your tombstone to say?

Still Rockin’