Dr. Patricia Illing

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Patricia received her PhD in 2014 from the University of Melbourne, where she investigated the mechanisms underlying the Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA)-associated drug hypersensitivity reaction known as abacavir hypersensitivity syndrome under the guidance of Professor James McCluskey. Her studies provided a molecular-level demonstration of how small molecule drugs interact with HLA, leading to a paradigm shift in the fields of antigen processing and presentation as well as drug hypersensitivity, notably documented in Nature (2012). Following the completion of her PhD, Patricia transitioned to the laboratory of Professor Tony Purcell at Monash University to continue her investigation of HLA-associated diseases, utilizing a combination of mass spectrometry and functional immunology techniques. She was appointed as a Group Leader at the Biomedicine Discovery Institute in 2021. Patricia's current research focuses on the interplay between genetic factors, such as HLA polymorphisms and antigen processing machinery, and environmental factors such as therapeutic drugs and infections, particularly regarding peptide presentation on HLA molecules. Her key projects include the investigation of influenza immunity and T cell-mediated drug hypersensitivity related to Type 1 Diabetes. Patricia's work aligns with several of the UN Sustainable Development Goals, demonstrating her commitment to advancing global health and protecting the planet through her research.

Research Interests

Experience

Senior Research Fellow

2021-01-01 — Present

Monash University • Melbourne, Australia

Leading research projects on HLA-associated diseases and developing innovative approaches to understanding immune responses.

Requirements for Monash University

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
IELTS
Listening
Required:6
Reading
Required:6
Writing
Required:6
Speaking
Required:6
Overall
Required:6.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:12
Reading
Required:13
Writing
Required:21
Speaking
Required:18
Total
Required:79
Prerequisites
Bachelor degree (or equivalent) in a related field
Application Checklist
  • Academic Transcripts
  • Proof of English Proficiency
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Copy of Passport
Specialization Notes

Requirements are standardized across the Faculty of Information Technology for most Master's programs including Computer Science and Data Science.