Biological Sciences

Overview of the Research Area

A diverse and interesting array of biological research is undertaken in the school spanning from working at the molecular level to analysis of the biological impact of climate change. Areas of biological research also overlap with other areas of the university including medical science, environment science and zoology. There are also staff with a strong research interest in Biology education.

Research focusing on structure-function studies of genes, peptides and proteins are carried out by several groups whereby they use modern tools in molecular biology and protein chemistry. Using state of the art instrumentation such NMR, mass spectrometry and confocal imaging, research projects aim to investigate the cellular dynamics and functions of proteins and genes. Examples of projects include cellular oxidative stress, the structure and function of neuropeptide-metal binding, cell signalling, gene activation and therapy and post-translational modification.

Groups involved in microbiology are studying the importance of survival and delivery of probiotic bacteria and their interactions with the immune system, natural gut bacteria and pathogens. Other projects include rapid method development for detection of pathogens in food together and the ecology and mechanisms of gastrointestinal pathogenesis. The role of biofilms in the persistence and transmission of bacterial pathogens in disease and methods for prevention and control are other important areas of research in the school.

Several groups work on bioactive natural products from micro-organisms to plants. This includes the study of antibiotics and other bioactive compounds from soil bacteria and cyanobacteria, investigating the biosynthesis and regulation and delivery into the environment. Other projects look to identify plant-derived antibiotics and determine mechanisms of tolerance.

Other areas of expertise include studying the eye and the chemistry of tear film, working at the interface of biology and physical chemistry. Expertise also exists in studying the response of marine organisms to climate change.

Researchers

Contact Person

For more information about the research area, please contact Prof. Thomas Millar via Email: T.Millar@westernsydney.edu.au Phone:(02) 9685 9901