RESPIRATORY HEALTH AND THE MICROBIOME IN THE LUNG ENVIRONMENT
Dr Steven Taylor, Postdoctoral Researcher,
Head of Respiratory Health Group
South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI)
Adelaide, South Australia
RESEARCHER PROFILE
Filmed in Adelaide, South Australian | December 2024
Dr Taylor leads the Respiratory Health Group within the Microbiome and Host Health Program. His research employs tailored techniques that allow the lung environment to be characterised to a high level of accuracy, including detailed measurements of airway microbiology (microbiome), mucus composition, and inflammation. This information is used to identify predictive markers of chronic lung disease severity as well as determine effective forms of therapy.
Dr Taylor is one of the researchers leading The GRACE study, a project that aims to investigate the carriage and transfer of resistant bacteria or ‘superbugs’ in residential aged care.
Funded by the National Health & Medical Research Council’s Medical Research Future Fund, this study will produce new evidence to help us to improve facility management, including cleaning and hygiene practices, to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria, and ultimately improve the health of aged care residents and the wider community.
Dr Taylor also recently led a study that showed genetics may play a crucial part in the efficacy of probiotics. Published in ISME Journal in June the study, focussed on the interactions between probiotics and individual genetic traits. Researchers say their findings suggest a more tailored approach to using probiotics may have the potential to significantly enhance gut microbiome regeneration and related health benefits.
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At the frontier of human cellular neuroscience research
Associate Professor Cedric Bardy is the Director of The Laboratory for Human Neurophysiology, Genetics & Stem Cells, located at SAHMRI. South Australia.
His current research uses preclinical, patient-derived cell models to test innovative therapeutic strategies, with a current focus on Parkinson’s disease, brain cancer and childhood dementia (Sanfilippo syndrome).
His work has established a platform to facilitate the discovery and validation of treatments for brain disorders. Their research is at the frontier of human cellular neuroscience research and translational applications that benefit global public health.
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Next Generation Condom Contraception, Dr Simon Cook
Dr. Simon Cook, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Operations at Eudaemon Technologies, has had a diverse and impactful career journey. Beginning with a background in biotechnology from the University of Wollongong, his focus on bacterial pathogenesis during his PhD led him to study Group A Strep and the streptokinase protein.
Subsequently, Dr. Cook ventured into a unique project funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, where he became involved in the development of a next-generation condom to address existing issues such as feel, odour, and taste.
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Professor Alex Fornito
PROFESSOR ALEX FORNITO
HEAD OF THE BRAIN MAPPING AND MODELLING RESEARCH PROGRAM
TURNER INSTITUTE FOR BRAIN AND MENTAL HEALTH, MONASH UNIVERSITY
VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA
