Molecular and Cellular Biology
Contents
Testimonials
Molecular and Cellular Biology
I was first drawn to UNE by my interest in science and a desire to live and study in a rural setting rather than in a big city. I was already aware of the university's excellent reputation in the sciences and made the decision to come here to start my BSc in 2000. I promptly fell in love with the place, and haven't left since! I'm currently in the final stages of a PhD in molecular microbial ecology (specifically related to coral disease), which has been a joint project undertaken with the National Marine Science Centre in Coffs Harbour. UNE has provided a very satisfying environment for my postgraduate studies, with excellent access to expertise from a variety of fields. I have gained a broad range of skills through my study here, from a solid grounding in biology and chemistry in my undergraduate days to a focussed understanding of environmental microbiology. The nature of my PhD project and the assistance provided by the National Marine Science Centre has allowed me to achieve a balance between applied laboratory research and field work, with plenty of opportunities to get out into the water and see effects of the environmental problem I am studying first hand. I have also really enjoyed the living experience that UNE has allowed me to have during my time here. Armidale is a great place to live, with a laid back rural lifestyle and a relatively small and close-knit community. The best part is that it's surrounded by some of most beautiful and rugged country in Australia, which offers endless possibilities for someone with a love of the outdoors. I have been heavily involved in the university mountaineering club for many years, and spend most of my spare weekends kayaking, climbing, bushwalking or mountain biking in the area.
Introduction
Welcome to the Molecular and Cellular Biology web page. Molecular and Cellular Biology is the study of living things using DNA technology, genetics and protein biochemistry. Molecular and Cellular Biology is making a huge impact in many areas including agriculture, archaeology, forensic science, human and animal health, assessment of biodiversity and conservation of endangered species.
This website provides information on:
- Why study Molecular Biology at UNE?
- How to study Molecular Biology at UNE
- Careers in Molecular Biology
- Industry links of staff in Molecular and Cellular Biology
- Who to contact for more information about Molecular and Cellular Biology at UNE
- Molecular Biology Facilities at UNE
- Units in Molecular and Cellular Biology
- Research projects of staff in Molecular and Cellular Biology
Why Study Molecular Biology at UNE?
· UNE has been ranked in the top 6 universities for Science Teaching in 2006 and 2007
· Small Classes, individual attention and friendly staff
· Lots of hands on experience in laboratory classes including protein purification, gene cloning, PCR, Southern blotting, DNA sequencing, gene libraries, bioinformatics, biochemical and DNA tests used for diagnosis of disease
· Good equipment
· All units available through distance education and external student acquire the same laboratory skills through participation in intensive schools
· All degrees include training in Generic Skills such as communication skills, information literacy and problem-solving.
· Opportunity to specialise in Biochemistry, Genetics, Microbiology or Molecular Genetics/Biotechnology
· Good job prospects
· UNE is well know for its college life and there are many opportunities for students to participate in sport, music, drama, and outdoor adventure activities through the colleges or the Armidale community.
· Staff are involved in both basic and applied research, including research on microorganisms that cause disease in plants, livestock animals and coral as well as plant biochemistry and molecular biology
Courses
Students can study Molecular Biology as part of a degree in:
· Science, Diploma in The Sciences or Advanced Diploma in The Sciences
· Biomedical Science
· Combined degree in Science and Arts
· Double degree in Science and Law
· Rural Science
· Agriculture
· Livestock Science
· Environmental Science
· Marine Science and Management
· Natural Resource
Students who are interested in specialising in Molecular Biology should enrol in a BSc and complete one of the following majors:
· Biochemistry
· Genetics
· Microbiology
· Biotechnology/Molecular Genetics (a combined major)
Units
Careers
This is an exciting time to begin a career in molecular biology. An explosion of information from recent genetic sequencing of organisms including a large number of bacteria, several fungi, plants, animals of varying complexity as well as humans has provided an unprecedented opportunity to understand how organisms operate at the molecular level. Job prospects for graduates with good grades are good. Approximately 70% of recent graduates in full time employment had jobs related to their area of study.
The types of job available include, diagnostics and analysis, product development, quality assurance, research and sales; employment is available in both the private sector; biotechnology, food, chemical and pharmaceutical companies; as well as hospitals, medical research laboratories, department of primary industry, CSIRO, National Parks and Wild life Service.
Many positions prefer students with hands-on laboratory experience and students looking for a career in molecular biology, biochemistry, genetics and microbiology are encouraged to commit to a four year degree, with the 4th "honours" year spent working on a laboratory based research project.
Some examples of career opportunities in Molecular Biology are listed below:
Human/Animal Health
· Diagnosis of disease (e.g. DNA tests for Chlamydia, HIV, genetic disorders)
· Development of new drugs/treatments for disease (e.g. Herceptin for treatment of breast cancer
· Vaccine development
· Water quality testing
· Quality control in food production
Forensic Science:
· DNA fingerprinting
· Biochemical testing
Agriculture/Rural Science/Horticulture
· Control of plant and animal pests and diseases
· Plant and animal breeding
· Transgenic plants (e.g. for increased disease resistance, drought tolerance)
Environmental Science/Ecology
· Discovery and classification of new species of plants, animals and microorganisms
· Conservation of endangered species
· Genetic diversity
· Control of feral animals/plants
Partnerships, Networks and Industry Links
Cotton CRC/CRDC
Poultry CRC
Australian Wool Innovations
Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS)
National Marine Science Centre
CSIRO Animal Health
NSW Department of Primary Industry
South Australian Research and Development Institute (SARDI)
Facilities
UNE has excellent facilities for research in Molecular and Cellular Biology, including equipment for HPLC, Mass Spectrometry, Fluorescence and Electron Microscopy, FRET, Microarrays, Quantitative (Real-Time) PCR, Robotic Liquid Handling as well as standard laboratory equipment for extraction and analysis of DNA, RNA and proteins.
Research
Dr Heather NonhebelMolecular biology of rice development, understanding how rice growth and response to stress are controlled at the molecular level.
Dr Lily Pereg-Gerk
Genetic regulation, molecular plant-microbial interactions (both pathology and growth promotion), marine microbiology, microbial ecology, proteins
Associate Professor Brian Cheetham
Bacterial pathogenesis, diagnosis of viral and bacterial diseases of livestock animals
Associate Professor Margaret Katz
Gene regulation and programmed cell death, fungal genetics, fungal diseases of plants, animals and humans.
Contacts
Associate Professor Margaret Katz (Convenor)
(02) 6773-3016
mkatz@une.edu.au