Dr Mary McMillan

Biography

I am a graduate of the University of New England, completing a Bachelor of Science with Honours in 2007, before moving on to complete my PhD in a joint project between UNE and CSIRO. Following the completion of my PhD in 2013, I joined UNE as an academic staff member, in the area of Molecular and Cellular biology, and went on to become a Senior Lecturer in Biomedical Science before taking on my current role of Adjunct Senior Lecturer.

My interests are in human genetics and molecular biology. I have been a member of the UNE Brain Behaviour Research Group, and have previously taught the following units:

- PSIO120: Introductory Human Physiology 2

- GENE210: Introductory Genetics

- Year 1 and 2 genetics in the Joint Medical Program

I acted as the Course Coordinator for the Science Pathways, providing avenues into University study for students who don’t have a traditional background in science.

I also have a passion for science communication, and was actively involved in a number of outreach activities, including HSC booster days, Far Out Science, and initiatives including the CSIROs Scientists and Mathematicians in Schools program and Skype a Scientist.

To learn more about my research and teaching you can follow me on Twitter: @accidental_sci or Instagram: @theaccidentalscientist

Qualifications

• BSc (Hons) (UNE)
• PhD (Molecular Biology), UNE,
• Graduate Certificate in Tertiary Education (UNE)

Research Interests

My research is carried out within UNE’s Brain and Behaviour Research Group. As part of this multi-disciplinary team I am investigating biological and genetic markers for mental illness, specifically in the area of depression. Ultimately the goal of this research is to improve diagnosis of mental illness, and provide personalised treatments for individuals. I am also involved in research projects in the area of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).

In addition to these major research projects, I also apply my knowledge and skills in molecular and cellular biology in supervising undergraduate research projects, Honours projects, and post-graduate students across a range of different fields.

Publications

See Google Scholar and Researchgate below

Memberships

Member of the Australian Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, the Genetics Society of Australasia, and the Australian Science Communicators

External Profiles

• Google Scholar Profile
• ResearchGate Profile