Gabby Brown,
Menzies Research Institute

Why do Devils get DFTD?

Hey, my name is Gabby, and I’m a PhD student at the Menzies Research Institute in Hobart.

I’m working with a group of scientists who are studying Tasmanian devils to work out why the devils can’t resist the deadly Devil Facial Tumour Disease that is sweeping through the population.

I started working with the devils when I did my honours project in 2008 and have continued research this year. Most of my work is done in the lab, but I do get to go out in the field and work with the devils!

For me, doing research that may help understand this terrible disease is extremely rewarding.

I did a Biotechnology degree at the University of Tasmania because it offered opportunities to work in an interesting and fast-moving area of science.

I find research in biology and genetics fascinating and have had opportunities to learn skills in many different areas, from health science to botany.

Find out more about the Tassie Devil Facial Tumour Disease (DFTD) at https://tassiedevil.com.au/disease.html