Michelle Power

Biography

Professor at Macquarie University

Research Interest

My broad research interests are in the area of host-parasite interactions, in particular the relationships between marsupials and parasitic protozoa. Marsupials and their parasites represent ancient evolutionary associations, and by comparing these relationships in Australian and American marsupials, we hope to gain insights into the evolution and diversification of both parasite and host. Within this framework my research extends to aspects of co-evolution, parasite adaptation, diversity, taxonomy and epidemiology of a range of parasites including Cryptosporidium, Eimeria and Giardia. DNA methods are essential to this research as the parasites we study share morphological similarities that make identification difficult. In response to this we are developing fluorescence based molecular tools for assessment of parasite diversity, population genetics and taxonomic classification. In collaboration with Prof. Michael Gillings we have established methods for rapid detection and species identification of Cryptosporidium. Our research also extends to understanding parasitic diseases in humans. Working with Liette Waldron and Cristel Cheung we are investigating transmission of Cryptosporidium in humans in rural and urban Australia and developing novel approaches for studying population biology of the Cryptosporidium parasite. Another research interest is the application of microbial characteristics to measure human impacts on endangered wildlife species and fragile ecosystems. In collaboration with Michael Gillings, we are also examining community structure and microbial interactions in the Antarctic environment with the aim of determining if these systems can be used to identify risks posed by humans in this fragile environment.