Professor Robert Harvey

Chair in Pathophysiology and Discipline Lead, Biomedical Science

School of Health and Science, University of the Sunshine Coast

Professor Robert Harvey specialises in cell biology, neuroscience, and molecular genetics. His research career has focused on the biological roles of synaptic receptors, transporters, and accessory proteins in health and disease utilising animal and cellular models, genetics, next- generation DNA sequencing, and molecular modelling. His work on the biological and therapeutic roles of glycine receptors has revealed key roles for different receptor subtypes in movement disorders, cortical neuronal migration, inflammatory pain sensitisation, and rhythmic breathing. At the Sunshine Coast Health Institute, he aims to investigate the molecular pathology of defects in inhibitory and excitatory synapses in individuals with autism, intellectual disability, and epilepsy (funded by the NHMRC). He aims to translate basic science discoveries into clinical applications, such as improved genetic diagnostics, patient care, and novel pharmacotherapies.