Dr Joanne Macdonald

 

Senior Lecturer, Molecular Engineering Sippy Downs Drive, Sippy Downs, Qld 4556 Research Group: University of the Sunshine Coast -Molecular Engineering   Webpage: http://www.usc.edu.au/explore/structure/faculty-of-science-health-education-and-engineering/staff/dr-joanne-macdonald Email: link Phone: 07 5456 5944

 

Current Research Activities

Dr. Macdonald’s research applies molecular engineering principles to provide novel solutions for industry and consumers. She previously co-developed a computer from DNA molecules that can play tic-tac-toe interactively against a human opponent, and is now developing biosensors that can display text without requiring electricity, because the molecules themselves power the device. With a background in virology, she is applying her biosensor technology for the diagnosis of deadly pathogens, including Hendra and Ebola virus, as well as mosquito transmitted pathogens such as Malaria, Dengue virus, and Chikungunya viruses, and water pathogens such as Adenovirus.

Dr Macdonald also has a strong industry focus to translate research ideas into products. She co-invented an anti-cocaine therapeutic enzyme that is now in Phase III clinical trials for treatment of cocaine overdose. Other current projects include the development of antidotes for the treatment of nerve agents and pesticide poisoning, and the investigation of the structure and strength of spider silk as an advanced material.