For her masters degree in biotechnology, Pallavi Venkatesh didnt just learn about the latest advances in medical science, she made some too.<\/p>\n
Pallavi studied one of the most important tools in modern medicine, the Vaccinia virus, which was used as a vaccine to eradicate smallpox.<\/p>\n
I found out that different strains of the virus preference different pathogen-sensing molecules found within immune cells, which is really exciting, she says.<\/p>\n
Better understanding how different virus strains are detected by immune cells could help fine-tune its use as a tool against cancers and other viruses in the future.<\/p>\n
Our finding was exciting as we found that more than one of these pathogen sensor molecules was involved and that different strains may activate different sensor molecules preferentially.<\/p>\n
Pallavi says the coursework components of her Master of Biotechnology (Advanced) at The Australian National University (ANU) gave her the skills she needed to undertake this original research.<\/p>\n
I studied genomic sciences, molecular biology and cell biology, which I really enjoyed, she says.<\/p>\n
For the research component of her degree, she had the opportunity to be part of an innovative team at The John Curtin School of Medical Research (JCSMR).<\/p>\n
I did my research under David Tscharke in the Immunology Department, she says.<\/p>\n
Working with David was an amazing learning opportunity, he pushes you to be the best you can and provides incredible support.<\/p>\n
I also received additional support from members of the lab which helped me through my research year.<\/p>\n
Prior to arriving at ANU, Pallavi completed her undergraduate degree at Jyoti Nivas College in Bangalore.<\/p>\n
She says that Canberra and living on campus at Toad Hall provided the ideal environment for a postgraduate scholar.<\/p>\n
I highly recommend ANU as a place to study, she says. I made lots of new friends here, friends for life.<\/p>\n
Inspired by her time at JCSMR, Pallavi is now planning to pursue a career in immunology.<\/p>\n
Find out more about how a Master of Biotechnology at ANU can help launch your career in medical, biological or agricultural science.<\/p>\n
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Graduating with a master's degree AND a medical discovery - Science at ANU<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" For her masters degree in biotechnology, Pallavi Venkatesh didnt just learn about the latest advances in medical science, she made some too. Continue reading