On December 5, 2024, the School of Medical, Molecular and Forensic Sciences (MMFS) at Murdoch University proudly hosted a successful presentation day for our new HDR (Higher Degree by Research) students.

This event, which has now replaced the traditional Confirmation of Candidature (CoC) presentations, provided a valuable platform for our new students to showcase their proposed projects and receive constructive feedback.

We began the day with a warm welcome from Associate Professor Wayne Greene, Dean of MMFS, and continued with an exciting lineup of presentations. Here are some of the highlights:

Biomedicine and Microbiology:

• Dean Naidoo will be exploring the world of tick microecology, exploring the key determinants and optimizing methodologies to better understand this complex microenvironment. #Microbiome #InfectiousDiseases #Genetics
• Princy Shoby presented her research proposal on the application of bacteriophages to the bacteria Enterococcus faecium, a significant pathogen causing bacteraemia in Australia, shedding light on this critical public health issue. #InfectiousDiseases #Immunology #Microbiology #PublicHealth
• Sarah Walsh took us on a journey through the heterogeneity of endometriosis, and will be using a systems biology approach to unravel the immunometabolic profiles associated with this poorly-understood condition. #Endometriosis #BiomedicalScience #Biomedicine

   

  Molecular biology and Genetics

• Junhu Kan showcased his work on gene editing and comparative analysis of the mitochondrial genome in Fabaceae, highlighting the advanced techniques and implications for plant science. #MolecularBiology #Genetics #GeneEditing #PlantScience
• Lily Nie's research on the evolutionary variation and function of the mitochondrial genome in Poaceae will provide valuable insights into the genetic diversity and its impact on plant biology. #MolecularBiology #Genetics #PlantScience

   

  Forensic Science and Toxicology

• Bobby Stewart-Yates captivated the audience outlining his investigation into the use of tramadol in cases of drug-facilitated sexual assault, emphasizing the importance of toxicological analysis in forensic science. #DFSA #Toxicology #Forensics #DrugInteractions
• Heather McKenna introduced a novel approach to in-field lysis and direct-PCR of forensic samples, offering a cutting-edge method for crime scene investigation. #ForensicScience #FieldTesting #CrimeSceneInvestigation

We are incredibly proud of our new HDR students and the exemplary quality of their research presentations. This event not only showcased their hard work and dedication but also fostered a supportive and engaging research environment within MMFS. We look forward to seeing the continued success and contributions of our HDR students to the scientific community.

Thank you to everyone who participated and made this day a memorable and successful event. We at Murdoch University are committed to maintaining this tradition of excellence and innovation in research.

Any MMFS staff or students with news to share are encouraged to use the following form: https://forms.office.com/r/eWFRwtFKvS

A/Prof Natalie Warburton

Associate Dean of Engagement