Welcome to the Department of Physiology
Welcome to the Department of Physiology at the University of Melbourne. We have come a long way since we were established in 1862 and have a proud history associated with some of the great names in Australian science. This web site presents the Department of Physiology today. In its pages you will find information and contacts in relation to our teaching and research.
Our research explores the territory between genes and body function with special relevance to the health and diseases affecting the heart and blood vessels, the eyes, the muscles, the brain and nerves, the gastrointestinal system and the mother and newborn. A remarkable breadth and depth of research expertise and equipment underpins our research that ranges from DNA sequencing to clinical trials. We have human exercise and metabolic laboratories, experimental models of disease, cellular and subcellular electrophysiology and imaging, including a new two-photon microscope, cellular and molecular laboratories with PCR robots, DNA synthesisers and sequencers. We also have strong collaborative links with key departments, research institutes and other universities nationally and internationally. We receive substantial research funding from a wide range of government and commercial sources. Our goal is to remain at the forefront of scientific research aimed at understanding the function of the human body in health and disease, employing novel and imaginative research methods.
You will also discover that one of our strategic goals is the strengthening of links between our teaching and research. We take seriously the professional development of our young undergraduates and equip them with critical thinking skills, knowledge and techniques useful in a range of future careers including research and academia. We are constantly reviewing and refining the curriculum and educational methods to best prepare students for scientific independence as they enter their graduate and postdoctoral careers.
We hope you find the information that you seek on our website. We would welcome any feedback that might improve our website for visitors.
Prof Gordon Lynch
Head of Physiology