Professor Robert Harvey obtained his Ph.D. in Natural Sciences (Biochemistry) from the University of Cambridge in 1991. Following postdoctoral studies at the Institute for Cell biology and Clinical Neurobiology, Hamburg (1991-1996) and the Max-Planck-Institute for Brain Research, Frankfurt (1996-1998), he moved to the UCL School of Pharmacy as a Lecturer.  After a few promotions, he became a Professor of Molecular Neuroscience and Genetics and Associate Director for Research. In 2017, he relocated to the School of Health and Sport Sciences, University of the Sunshine Coast, and now runs a research group at the Sunshine Coast Health Institute.

He is Professor of Pathophysiology, Biomedical Science Discipline Lead and a member of the USC Research Committee and USC Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) SAT team.

His main area of research is the molecular genetics of autism spectrum disorder, epilepsy, intellectual disability and startle disease. His research also has a strong translational aspect - he aims to convert basic science discoveries into clinical applications, such as improved genetic diagnostics, patient care and pharmacological treatments.