Martina Sanderson-Smith
Associate Professor at University of Wollongong
Living in New South Wales, Australia
Martina is a molecular microbiologist leading a research team the University of Wollongong (UOW). Martina’s fascination with infectious disease, and a desire to help improve the health of others drove her to pursue a career trying to understand bacterial infection in humans. She has worked extensively in the field of Group A streptococcus, and this continues to be a major research theme. More recently her research focus has broadened, working with engineers, environmental biologists and ecologists to combat antimicrobial resistance.
After completing a PhD at UOW, Martina conducted research in Germany and the USA, and continues to enjoy collaborating with scientists across the globe. Martina also teaches microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry and immunology at UOW. As an educator Martina enjoys sharing her love of microbiology with the next generation of scientists, and is committed to helping people understand that the health of the planet, society and individuals is inextricably linked. She is also a strong advocate for embedding principles of equity, diversity and inclusion in teaching, research practice and training, to create a kinder more enjoyable and productive research culture for everyone. Outside of work Martina enjoys travelling and spending time with her family, including two children, two dogs and a cat, cooking, eating, bushwalking and reading.
