Improved preparedness for emerging infectious disease and chemical/terrorism threats

Adsorbed chemical species on inhalable iron rich particles. Addresses the synergistic effect of combined emissions from the iron ore and petrochemical industries on the human health, by understanding the science involved. CRC CARE Project Grant.
Contact: Prof Alison Jones

Development of an olfactory stress test for the early identification of Alzheimer's disease –
a pilot study. The sense of smell ('olfaction') is often affected in individuals with early Alzheimer's disease. This study is investigating whether a simple change to a standard way of testing olfaction might make it a better test for detecting early Alzheimer's disease. John Hunter Hospital Charitable Foundation Trust.
Contact: Prof Alison Jones

Addressing challenges of CBRNE terrorism. Examining ongoing and optimal ways of communicating with the community in the event of major or mass emergency situations generally, and CBRNE situations specifically. National Security Science and Technology Unit - Australian Government Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.
Contact: Prof Alison Jones

An advanced mass spectrometry facility for applications in proteomic and organic chemistry. ARC – LIEF
Contact: Prof Alison Jones

Genes in serotonin toxicity (GISETTO). Serotonin drugs are widely used in Australia for the treatment of depression and anxiety. A common and potentially lethal complication of this is a condition known as serotonin toxicity. This study will identify the central nervous system genetic risk factors for developing this. This will increase our knowledge of individual variation in drug response, improve drug safety and advance the knowledge of the various genetic components that may affect response to these drugs. University of Newcastle – NHMRC near miss grant.
Provision of high level toxicology advice and toxicology laboratory services review. NSW Department of Health.
Contact: Prof Alison Jones

Behavioural responses to CBRN incidents. Addressing the importance of the role that communication plays before, during, and after a terrorist event. Home Office (UK); Counter Terrorism and Intelligence Directorate.
Contact: Prof Alison Jones

Media Doctor. A web based media monitoring program that rates the quality of health news stories. Media Doctor captures news articles appearing in the mainstream media reporting on developments in medication interventions. Each news story is categorised and rated by expert reviewers according to ten quality criteria. A rating and critique of each story is posted on the website. The aim is to improve journalists reporting of health news stories.
Contact: Ms Amanda Wilson