Cellular and Molecular Physiology MPhil

Cellular and Molecular Physiology focuses on understanding how molecular and cellular processes give rise to complex physiologic functions. We have expertise in all aspects of modern physiology, ranging from the regulation of gene expression to cell, tissue and whole organism biology.

Overview

We have a long and prestigious history and are a leading international centre for research into the fundamental principles of human physiology. We're developing collaborative ways to address important physiological questions, providing vital translational links to clinicians at the bedside.

Research in this program includes study of molecular structure and function, molecular interactions and cell signalling through to complex cellular phenotypes and communications that underlie the integrated functions of the tissues and organ systems comprising higher living organisms. Research extends from molecular, biophysical and computational methods to developmental and post-genomic physiologic strategies, with model organisms ranging from bacteria and yeast, to fruit-flies, worms, mouse and man.

We particularly welcome research proposals that match those of our researchers, including:

Cell physiology, with a focus on intracellular signalling, vesicular transport and the cell cycle
Systems physiology, including the cancer microenvironment, gastric physiology, stem cell biology and developmental physiology
Smooth muscle physiology, with research in reproductive physiology, ureteric microvessels, respiratory physiology and disease
Intestinal epithelial cell biology in health and disease
Neuronal signalling, integrating expertise in cell biology, structural biology and the use of model organisms to investigate aging, neurodegeneration and addiction
Calcium signalling in health and disease, which is currently focused on the role of Ca2+ signalling, mitochondrial function and bioenergetics in pancreatitis and regulated secretion
Vascular biology, including the therapeutic use of vascular stents
Mechanisms of infection and immune cell response
Cancer cell biology, including role of stroma/immune cell microenvironment; cancer cell invasion, migration and metastasis.

Research themes

In essence, our research is focused around a number of key research areas of expertise, each of which is related to a complementary area of clinical research or drug development.

These key research areas are:

Cell (including stem cell) physiology
Systems physiology
Smooth muscle physiology
Neuronal signalling
Calcium signalling in health and disease
Gastroenterology Research
Cancer cell biology.

Other themes, including vascular biology are under development, and there are exciting partnerships developing with clinicians in cancer research, reproductive medicine, child health and pancreatic research.