The Batterham research group is part of the Centre for Environmental Stress and Adaptation Research (CESAR). The groups main research interest is pest insect genomics and insecticide resistance.

Of particular interest are the mechanisms by which agricultural and domestic insect pests develop resistance to chemical insecticides. The genes that encode insecticide targets and detoxification enzyme (Carboxylesterases, Cytochrome P450s and Glutathione-s-transferases and UGT-glycosyltransferases) are being examined. This research is underpinned by genomics research on these pests. In collaboration with Paul Gooley, Malcolm McConville and Michael Parker at the Bio21 Institute, the relationship between protein structure and function is being examined.  We have developed the capacity to predict the genetic basis of insecticide resistance before it arises in the field. We also have the capacity to conduct insect genomc projects identifying all of the existing resistance genes and novel targets for the development of species-specific insecticides. Our work finds extension and focus in improving the control of major crops pests in the developing world. Our lab works very closely with Charles Robin (Bio21 Institute) and David Heckel (Max Planck Institute)

Techniques include: Genotyping-AFLPs, microsatellites, SNPs; Position cloning of genes; microinjection; Microarrays and real time PCR; dsRNAi, targeted gene knockouts and gene overexpression; Tissue in situ hybridization; cDNA library construction / EST projects; Insect cell culture.

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Phil Batterham Bio

Professor Phil Batterham completed his undergraduate education at LaTrobe University. After an Honours year (1976) under the supervision of John McKenzie, he undertook a PhD in the Department of Genetics at Monash University with Steve McKechnie. Phil then moved to Syracuse University in 1980 for postdoctoral research with Tom Starmer and David Sullivan. He returned to the University of Melbourne to take up a postdoctoral fellowship with Jim Camakaris before becoming a Lecturer in the Department of Genetics in 1984. In 2004 Phil was promoted to the level of Associate Professor and Reader. In 2006 he became Associate Dean (Communications & Development) in the Faculty of Science. 

Research Group

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