Associate Professor Paul Anderson is a physiologist working at the interface of bone biology, endocrinology, and translational therapeutics. His research focuses on how we can improve musculoskeletal health and prevent skeletal disease by linking fundamental biology with clinically relevant outcomes.
His program spans vitamin D metabolism, bone remodelling, implant infection, and cancer–bone interactions. He is particularly interested in how enzymes such as CYP27B1 and CYP24A1 regulate local vitamin D activity, and how these pathways can be targeted to treat conditions ranging from osteoporosis to breast cancer metastasis. In parallel, he leads work on orthopaedic implant technologies, including anti-infective surface modifications that aim to prevent biofilm formation without compromising osseointegration.
His team integrates preclinical models, molecular biology, imaging, and biomechanics to move from mechanism to function. This includes developing and testing new therapeutics, evaluating implant performance, and identifying strategies that enhance bone formation in diseases such as X-linked hypophosphataemia.
He has led continuous NHMRC-funded research since 2009, alongside major collaborative projects with industry and government focused on translating discoveries into practical applications.
Beyond research, he provides strategic leadership in researcher development and academic performance, and has held senior roles including Professorial Lead for Researcher Development and Acting Dean of Research. He also directs a preclinical biotesting facility supporting device and therapeutic development.
He is Director of the Bone Health Foundation, where he supports national research funding, community engagement, and advocacy to reduce the burden of musculoskeletal disease.