Jacqueline Phillips

Biography

Professor Phillips is a neurophysiologist. She trained initially as a veterinarian, and after a number of years in small animal private practice, went on to do a PhD in medical research. She came to Macquarie University and the then Australian School of Advanced Medicine in 2009. Her research examines the complex relationship between the brain and the cardiovascular system, and how they act together as drivers of high blood pressure in kidney disease. Much of her work focuses around a condition called polycystic kidney disease. Multiple approaches are used in the laboratory including molecular techniques, immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy, and measurement of physiological parameters such as nerve activity, blood pressure and heart rate. The goal of her work is to improve the quality of life for suffers of kidney disease by reducing their risk of high blood pressure, heart attack and stroke.

Research Interest

Autonomic reflex control of the heart and vasculature in hypertension and chronic kidney disease Structural and functional abnormalities arising from mutations in PKD genes Sympathetic and sensory mechanisms driving conditions of chronic pain. Factors contributing to depression and suicide risk in Veterinarians.