Infectious disease and biosecurity are two of the most pressing scientific issues facing society. A growing human population, increased global connectivity, urbanisation, climate change and intensive farming practices all create a greater connection between people, animals, plants and the infectious diseases each carry. Biosecurity is how we prevent and control emerging infectious disease, and protect the planet’s resources.

In the Infectious Disease and Biosecurity major, you’ll study the significance of the intersection between humans and the environment, wildlife and domestic animals in disease dynamics, and how this is relevant to health biosecurity. You’ll develop skills in applying disease transmission theory to epidemiology, in the lab and in devising a biosecurity response plan. And your ability to communicate infectious disease and biosecurity concepts in a range of modes will boost your career prospects.

Key features

• Get skills in detection, diagnosis and pathogen discovery

   

  Learn about diseases in Australia, as well as emerging global threats such as Ebola, avian influenza and antibiotic resistance.

• Undertake a degree that’s co-designed with industry

   

  Study a degree that’s designed in consultation with industry, and acquire cutting-edge medical science research skills.

• Contribute to the annual Indigenous Science Experience

   

  Undertake industry placements and independent research projects, and engage with Aboriginal communities.

• Study within our research-active environment

   

  Learn from teachers who are leading biosecurity researchers – Macquarie is home to the Biosecurity Futures Research Centre.