My research experience lies withing the cell biology field, investigating and exploiting the endosome-lysosome system within healthy and diseased states such as cancer and lysosomal storage disorders. I joined the University of South Australia in 2009 when I was awarded an APDI fellowship as part of an ARC linkage grant entitled: ‘The development of a neuronal gene delivery system’. In 2013 we were awarded a NBCF novel concept grant entitled ‘Identifying novel protein biomarkers in breast cancer’.
My current focus and passion is in teaching that draws on my past research experience and interests in cell biology and associated pathologies such as cancer. I currently coordinate the first year Biology A (BIOL 1007) and the third year Cancer Biology (BIOL 3033) courses, aswell as the Unisa Online Foundations of Human Biology 1 (BIOL 1052) course. I have also taught previously into the Human Physiology (BIOL 1049; BIOL 1050), Physiology (BIOL 2035), and Health and Society (HLTH 1025) courses within UniSA. With the utility of both traditional and online resources and tools I have supported students in their learning and understanding of key concepts of the courses I teach into. I am passionate about facilitating learning among students and strive to continually improve my teaching skills in order achieve this.
I completed my PhD in 2006 at the lysosomal Diseases research unit, Child, Youth and Women’s Health Service, where I gained expertise in the field of lysosomal biology and immunochemistry. After completion of my PhD I gained experience in the commercial aspects of the biotechnology industry whilst working at Neubody Pty. Ltd., as a production biochemist.