Michelle Boyle
Why did you choose the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute for your PhD?
While I was studying undergrad I was involved in the Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP) where I had the opportunity to work in two labs at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute.
I chose to continue my PhD here as it’s such a great institute and the lab I am in also provides opportunities to work in labs in Papua New Guinea and Africa, as we work on malaria.
What do you see as the benefi ts of doing a PhD at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute?
The institute labs are so well supported by amazing services such as media and FACS (Fluorescence Activated Cell Sorting). Also, there is fabulous opportunities to work with and collaborate with leading researchers from around the world.
Socially, the student club retreats have provided a great opportunity to get to know other students as well as meet researchers from all different fields.
When did you start your PhD?
January 2009
What is the subject of your PhD research?
My PhD is focused on learning more about how malaria parasites get into red blood cells, where they live and replicate. This is the stage of the parasite’s life cycle that causes all disease symptoms.
Gaining insight into how the parasite invades the red blood cell is important so we can develop strategies to block the parasite and reduce disease.
What does a typical working day involve?
I usually start the day by looking at my parasite cultures. We are able to grow the blood stage of the malaria parasite in culture in the lab. The parasites require feeding and looking at every day.
After I deal with my parasites I will run an experiment for whatever I am working on at the time (this might be looking at inhibitors to stop parasites getting into red blood cells, or using the microscope and fluoresent antibodies to try and understand what different proteins are doing when the parasite invades).
I will also read a paper or two and maybe work on some writing for a paper or thesis chapter. There are also lots of seminars and meetings to attend.
What did you study at uni?
Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science double degree, majoring in Indonesian language, Asian studies and microbiology.