RESEARCH SPOTLIGHT As a student studying biology, you will be taught by world leaders in their respective fields, and have opportunities to engage in research projects that lead to new discoveries and push forward scientific boundaries. These opportunities range from research immersion units such as BIO3990 and GEN3990 Research in Action and BIO4100 Biology Research Project, to paid scholarships over the summer and winter vacations. Here, we highlight some of the award winning projects currently taking place in Biological Sciences at Monash. DEFEATING HEART DISEASE BY MANIPULATING THE MICROBES IN OUR GUTS. High blood pressure is the main risk factor for death from cardiovascular disease. Associate Professor Francine Marques’ team is investigating the role that our gut microbes play in regulating blood pressure. The team has discovered that diets rich in fibre regulate beneficial microbes to prevent the development of heart disease and stroke. Research is ongoing to uncover the genetic mechanisms involved, and clinical trials are underway to deliver new treatments to lower blood pressure.
MEDICATING THE ENVIRONMENT Pharmaceuticals are major environmental polluters, from antidepressants to contraceptive drugs, filtering through urban sewerage systems and into our natural environments. Research in Professor Bob Wong’s team studies the effects of these pollutants on the behaviour, ecology and evolution of native animals. These research discoveries are now expanding the evidence base for the global regulation of contaminants in the environment, and the treatment of wastewater effluent.
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