Laboratory Based Research

Unit Code

02030

Department/Institution Offering Unit

Molecular Pathology Laboratory
Sullivan Nicolaides Pathology
134 Whitmore St
Taringa, 4068
Queensland
www.snp.com.au

Unit Points

Research Points: 100

Coursework Points: 0

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Contacts

Unit Coordinator/s:

Dr Jennifer MB Robson
Microbiology Department
Sullivan Nicolaides Pathology
134 Whitmore St
Taringa, 4068
Queensland Australia

tel: + 07 33778506
fax: + 07 38705971

email: jrobson@snp.com.au

Alternative Contact:

Dr Sarah Cherian
Microbiology Department
Sullivan Nicolaides Pathology
134 Whitmore St
Taringa, 4068
Queensland Australia

tel: + 07 33778506
fax: + 07 38705971

email: jrobson@snp.com.au

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Overall Objectives

Initially the student will familiarise him/herself with various aspects of routine laboratory molecular biology and its application to the diagnosis and management of infectious diseases. This will include nucleic acid extraction methods for different specimen types; real time PCR instruments; primer and probe design; biosafety considerations; quality control and quality assurance; and costing exercises. The next phase will be to set up and validate a real time PCR and assess clinical utility. Depending upon progress there will be a number of alternative projects that utilise the assay.

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Content

Coursework: N/A

Research: Sullivan Nicolaides is a large private pathology laboratory with a huge throughput of clinical samples available for research and developmental work. The major component of this course will be scientific laboratory based research, performed under the supervision of members of the molecular department, Depending upon the interests of the student and the needs of the department the project will entail the development of in house real time PCR assays for the detection of various infectious agents e.g Pneumocystis, faecal pathogens e.g norovirus or detection of antimicrobial resistance mechanisms by molecular means in bacteria. A previous project involved the development of a PCR for the molecular diagnoses of Coxiella burnetii (Q fever agent). This was then validated using a large number of clinical specimens.

Sample Research Topics:

1. Molecular detection of antimicrobial resistance mechanisms – ESBLS, MBLs plasmid mediated AMPC etc
2. Quantitative CMV estimation in transplant patients
3. Detection of faecal pathogens by molecular mechanisms e.g viruses - rotavirus, adenvirus, norovirus
4. Detection of faecal pathogens – various E.colis (EPEC, EHEC EIEC etc)
5. Detection of new respiratory viral pathogens

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Assessment Breakdown

Research Component: 100 points
Research Report (up to 10,000 words): 100%

Coursework Component:
N/A

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Student Numbers

Number of places available:
1