Our research
We use cutting-edge technologies to answer fundamental questions relating to health, disease and the environment. Our work focusses on basic biochemical and cellular processes, studies on whole organisms from microbes to humans, and the interactions of these organisms with their environment.
Our research embodies La Trobe University’s strategic priorities of excellence, innovation and international recognition. The Department’s vision is achieved through excellence across ten research themes.
For a booklet containing information on all of our research labs within the Department of Microbiology, Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, see below:
Cardiovascular disease and stroke
Researching a wide spectrum of cardiovascular biology and diseases.
Cell and developmental biology
Examining cell functions, interactions, and mechanisms that control embryonic development.
Educational research
Contributing towards evidence-based teaching practices and high quality student learning experience.
Endocrinology and reproductive biology
Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology represents laboratories focused on endocrinology, neurobiology, molecular genetics and foetal programming of adult diseases.
Immunity and host-pathogen interactions
Studying physical and immunological interactions of viruses, bacteria and parasites with their hosts.
Metabolic and mitochondrial disease
Exploring metabolic or mitochondrial dysfunction in chronic and degenerative diseases.
Microbial ecology and genomics
Observing how communities of microorganisms interact with each other, their environment and us.
Muscoskeletal physiology, injury and disease
Understanding the role of cellular signalling, biochemical interactions and pathophysiology.
Neuropharmacology, addiction and pain
Exploring the effects of drugs on the nervous system and the neural mechanisms through which they influence behaviour.
Neurophysiology, neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation
Discovering new and improved ways to prevent, diagnose and treat neurological disorders.