Overview
The Molecular Biotechnology Discipline Group is at the forefront of cutting-edge advances in biotechnology and biomedical sciences, all aimed at enhancing the quality of health, medicines, food, and the environment.
Through our research-informed educational programs, we are shaping the future of biotechnology and biomedical sciences by nurturing the next generation of innovators and problem solvers. Our teaching programs include Bachelor of Molecular Biotechnology, Bachelor of Medical Sciences, Masters in Medical Biotechnology and Masters in Science, majoring in Biomedical Engineering, as well as our research training (Honours, Masters and PhD) programmes.
Our members research fundamental molecular and cellular biology questions, but also focus on discoveries that transform industry and society through the harnessing and development of cutting-edge technologies. Our research endeavours extend to identifying new and improved markers of disease and testing of new therapeutic interventions to provide greater accuracy, earlier detection and treatment options across a range of health conditions. Our investigations span a diverse array of conditions including respiratory diseases like COPD and asthma, in utero exposures, neurodegenerative, metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, as well as ovarian cancer, inflammatory bowel disease and pre-eclampsia. Furthermore, we explore the potential of nano- and biomaterials, synthetic biology, gene editing for improved drug delivery, vaccine development, regenerative medicine and cancer therapies.
Through our teaching and research activities we strive for excellence by fostering and promoting lifelong learning, building collaborative national and international networks and maintaining our close engagement with industry and the broader community.
Discipline leader
Distinguished Professor Brian Oliver
Deputy Discipline Leader
Dr Alen Faiz
Academic Staff
Professor Stella Valenzuela
Professor Hui Chen
Associate Professor Matt Padula
Associate Professor Charles Cranfield
Associate Professor Lana McClements
Dr Kristine McGrath
Dr David Van Reyk
Dr Chantal Donovan
Dr Richard Kim
Dr Andrew Care
Dr Jerran Santos