A leading researcher at the Australian National University (ANU) studying infectious diseases has been awarded a fellowship from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).
Si Ming Man, a Group Leader at the John Curtin School of Medical Research, investigates how the immune system works and specifically how immune cells recognise receptors, what features of the microbe they respond to and how to activate them.
Dr Man (pictured) is exploring the role of a family of killer proteins, produced in response to activation of pattern-recognition receptors, in killing pathogens.
“Harnessing the power of these killer proteins from our own immune system could reveal new ways to fight infectious diseases, which is of paramount importance especially in the face of rising resistance to antibiotics,” Dr Man said.
The fellowship will allow his team to continue their pioneering research on finding new ways to fight diseases.
“It is an incredible honour. I am very proud to be considered alongside some of the best scientific minds in the country,” Dr Man said.
“I hope to continue making important scientific discoveries that will lead to better health for the Australian community.”
Dr Man is also being recognised by the American Association of Immunologists (AAI) in May.
The Group Leader topped the list of early career investigators and will collect the 2019 AAI Pfizer-Showell Travel Award in San Diego.
