Molecular Virology underpins most major scientific discoveries; Burnet's role is vital in developing blocks to infection and prevention of the spread by viruses of disease.

Basic research has underpinned most of the major scientific discoveries that we have today. The Burnet Virology Program aims to better define the replication processes of human viral pathogens and their closely related viruses through fundamental research. Strong emphasis is placed on understanding how viral pathogens manipulate their respective host cells to promote viral replication, virus production and viral persistence. Scientists within the virology program work on a variety of viruses, including Hepatitis A, B, C, and E viruses, human foamy virus, human immunodeficiency virus type 1, Mason-Pfizer monkey virus, measles virus, Moloney murine leukemia virus and simian immunodeficiency virus. List of research teams and their projects

Current research areas within this group include:

  • Dissect the proteins interaction among viral and/or cellular proteins that leads to the development of drug resistant virus and/or the killing of the host cells;
  • Evaluate the regulation of the viral RNA and protein expression during the acute and latent phase of viral replication;
  • Determine the contribution of viral envelope proteins on viral entry, assembly and host cell immune response;
  • Define the mechanism of viral infection in liver;
  • Elucidate the role of host cell lipids and viral factors (such as RNA and protein structures) in viral replication, and;
  • Develop novel tissue culture model for investigating human viral pathogens.

The Burnet Virology Program has a strong commitment to undergraduate and post-graduate training with over 20 students currently participate in the Burnet Virology Program via enrolment through University of Melbourne, Monash University, RMIT University and Deakin University.

Members of the Burnet Virology Program have a demonstrated record of collaboration with industry partners to translate our discoveries from basic research to diagnosis, treatment and prevention. Most of our members are named inventors on various patent applications and many are involved in commercial entities to further develop these technologies to have a real impact on human health through commercialisation.

Research activities at the Burnet Virology Program are supported by:

  • Australian NHMRC;
  • Australian National Centre for HIV Virology Research;
  • American Foundation for AIDS Research;
  • National Institutes of Health;
  • The Clive and Vera Ramaciotti Foundation;
  • The Honda Foundation;
  • The Cecilia Kilkeary Foundation;
  • The Joe White Bequest;
  • Venture Capital Companies.

 

Molecular Virology


Program Facilitators -
Dr Andy Poumbourios and
Deputy Dr Gilda Tachedjian

Basic research underpins most major scientific discoveries. Within the Molecular Virology Program strong emphasis is placed on understanding how viruses manipulate their host cells in order to infect them. Burnet's research in this area is vital in developing ways to block infection and in preventing viruses from spreading and causing disease.