Stem Cell and Developmental Biology

Cells are the basic unit of life.

Understanding how cells develop and differentiate into complex tissues and organisms is of fundamental biological importance and a key determinant of disease.

Our researchers use computational systems, stem cells and animal models to investigate the normal and pathological development of tissues and organs, including how sex organs, the heart and the nervous systems develop.

We also examine how cell state and fate change in macular degeneration, heart diseases and vascular disorders.

Our internationally recognised research into ethics, law and society addresses the societal impacts of emerging technologies such as stem cells.

Collectively, we aim to develop new methods for regenerative medicine, including:

• Replacement cells for blood, brain and gut, and
• Identifying improved treatments for retinal disease and neuropsychiatric disorders

• Cheng laboratory: Stem cell and organ size control regulation

  Research Group Leader: Associate Professor Louise Cheng

• Clark laboratory: Transcriptomics and Neurogenetics

  Research Group Leader: Dr Mike Clark

• Gunnersen laboratory: Neuron development and plasticity

  Research Group Leader: Associate Professor Jenny Gunnersen

• Hime laboratory: Stem cell genetics and Drosophila models of human disease

  Research Group Leader: Professor Gary Hime

• Hogan laboratory: Vascular Cell and Developmental Biology

  Research Group Leader: Professor Ben Hogan

• Munsie laboratory: Ethical, legal and social implications of stem cell research

  Research Group Leader: Professor Megan Munsie

• Porrello laboratory: Cardiac Regeneration

  Research Group Leader: A/Prof Enzo Porrello

• Smith laboratory: Cardiac Genetics

  Research Group Leader: Associate Professor Kelly Smith

• Stamp & Hao laboratory: Development of the enteric nervous system

  Research Group Leaders: Dr Lincon Stamp and Dr Marlene Hao

• Stem Cell Disease Modelling Laboratory

  Research Group Leader: Professor Alice Pébay

• Wells laboratory: Stem cell systems

  Research Group Leader: Professor Christine Wells

• Wilhelm laboratory: Gonad Development and Fertility

  Research Group Leader: Associate Professor Dagmar Wilhelm