UNIVERSITY SPOTLIGHT
Macquarie University Source: Sally Wood Macquarie University is a trailblazer in Australia’s materials science research. Macquarie is globally recognised as a world-leading university, which ties together innovation and exploration for the next generation of critical thinkers.
research themes, which tie traditional subjects with new pathways for students and researchers.
Macquarie is ranked in the top 1% of universities around the world, and is consistently recognised for its global research collaborations and pathways.
• Chemical biology
Over 44,000 students from over 100 countries are part Macquarie’s global network. They are supported by over 40,000 industry-based learning placements.
• Biotechnology
The University undertakes an impressive research agenda, which encompasses chemistry, biology, and materials science. Together, researchers seek to bridge the gaps between academia and industry practice. The Department of Molecular Science is a key player across three national research centres, and two universitybased centres. The Department has several key
34 | APRIL 2022
Some of these research areas include: • Analytical science • Environmental chemistry • Synthetic chemistry • Proteomics • Biochemistry The Department is led by Professor Alison Rodger, who has been recognised as a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Science. She has also been involved in the European Science Foundation as a Consultant for Chemical Science. Professor Rodger says Macquarie ties a broad range of experts and subject areas together to pave the way for a better future. “We love to see our projects integrating fundamental research and solving real world problems in areas ranging from developing catalytic materials to understanding environmental
BACK TO CONTENTS
microbiomes.” Professor Rodger’s research focuses on spectroscopic techniques to understand the functions of biomacromolecules—a molecule that contains a very large number of atoms. She has worked at Macquarie since 2017, where she has adopted a datadriven approach to answer questions about biomolecular systems. She is known for running an open access biophysical spectroscopy laboratory, which puts commercial users and researchers in the same room to solve complex problems. In all, Macquarie boasts first-class research facilities, which unlock a variety of potential for researchers and industry alike.
First-Class Research Facilities The Chemical Analysis Facility complements commercial and government-run research laboratories by providing a range of analytical services. These services are farreaching; from materials quality assurance to forensic chemistry.
WWW.MATERIALSAUSTRALIA.COM.AU
