Celebrating World Anatomy Day: Understanding the Human Body
Every year on the 15th October, World Anatomy Day highlights the importance of understanding human anatomy and its relevance in medicine, education and our daily lives.
It’s an opportunity to celebrate the intricate design of the human body, its complexity and functionality – and to inspire the next generation of scientists and healthcare professionals.
The study of anatomy has a rich history and has evolved through dissection and innovative imaging technologies, providing invaluable insights into human health - from the cardiovascular system to the nervous system.
The Department of Anatomy & Physiology at the University of Melbourne is an international leader in anatomical research and is shaping the way the discipline is taught through new learning resources. Here’s just a glimpse of what’s happening in the Department.
Innovative teaching & world leading technology
Michelle Rank is Associate Professor Topographic Anatomy in the Department. Her teaching practice includes digital anatomy resources such as virtual and augmented reality, and 3D anatomy apps to enhance student learning.
Dr Charlotte Clark is a Senior Lecturer incorporating evidence-based educational innovation and technologies into curriculum design.
See what they have to say in the Department’s, In the Lab series.
The Melbourne Academy of Surgical Anatomy
Offering lifelong learning opportunities in surgical education and training. MASA offers lifelong learning opportunities in surgical education and training, micro-credentials, research and commercialisation. Surgery is at our core, but MASA supports the full breadth of the clinical application of anatomy.
Body Donor Program
The Body Donor Program, managed by the Department of Anatomy & Physiology is the only one of its kind in Victoria and one of the largest in Australasia. The University is deeply grateful to the large number of Victorians who donate their body to science and research. Their contributions make it possible to provide exceptional educational opportunities for students and practising clinicians looking to advance their anatomical knowledge.
Harry Brookes Allen Museum of Anatomy & Pathology
The Harry Brookes Allen Museum of Anatomy and Pathology is one of Australia's largest collections of human tissue specimens, animal anatomy specimens, and historical anatomical models, offering students and researchers a unique insight into the human body. The museum is not normally open to the public but you can discover the museum's history and explore the collection online.
Why 15th October?
The 15th of October marks the anniversary of the death of Andreas Vesalius in 1564, who is considered to be the founder of modern human anatomy. The observations Vesalius made overturned misconceptions in anatomy that had prevailed for centuries.