Dr. Joel Mackay

Professor

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Biography

Professor Joel Mackay is a physical biochemist focused on protein structure and function engineering, particularly the molecular mechanisms underlying eukaryotic gene regulation. He obtained his PhD from the University of Cambridge in 1994 and moved to the University of Sydney the following year. Over his illustrious career, Professor Mackay has established a vibrant research laboratory in the School of Life and Environmental Sciences. With over 195 published papers, 87% in the top 10% of journals, his work has garnered approximately 8000 citations, confirming his stature in the field. As the current Chair of Biochemistry and the President of the Australian Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, he leads a group dedicated to understanding protein function at a molecular level. His research emphasizes cutting-edge library display technology to design new proteins and peptides tailored for specific functions. Mackay's lab has proven productivity over 25 years, supported by around $30 million in grants. His major findings include elucidating the roles of zinc fingers in transcription factors and the mechanism of alpha-globin in hemoglobin assembly, contributing significant insights into diseases like beta-thalassemia and sickle cell anemia. He actively collaborates internationally and contributes to undergraduate teaching, supervising honors and PhD students.

Research Interests

Experience

Chair of Biochemistry

1995-01-01 — Present

University of Sydney • Sydney, Australia

Leading research and teaching efforts in biochemistry and molecular biology.

Awards

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Young Investigator Award

1997-01-01
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Roche Molecular Biochemicals Medal

2001-01-01
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Science Minister's Prize for Achievement in Life Sciences

2002-01-01
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Gottschalk Medal

2006-01-01
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Discovery Science Award

2016-01-01

Requirements for University of Sydney

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.3
IELTS
Listening
Required:6
Reading
Required:6
Writing
Required:6
Speaking
Required:6
Overall
Required:6.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:17
Reading
Required:17
Writing
Required:19
Speaking
Required:17
Total
Required:85
PTE
Listening
Required:54
Reading
Required:54
Writing
Required:54
Speaking
Required:54
Overall
Required:61
Prerequisites
A master's degree with a research component or a bachelor's degree with first or second-class honours. Demonstrated research experience and capability.
Application Checklist
  • Academic transcripts
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Research proposal (1000+ words)
  • Two academic referee reports
  • Evidence of residency status
  • Written statement of support from potential supervisor
Specialization Notes

This entry applies to Faculty of Science PhD programs including Departments such as Life and Environmental Sciences, Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics and Statistics.