Past Scientists
Dr Anita Ayer
________
Dr Anita Ayer completed her Bachelor of Arts (French and Politics) alongside a Bachelor of Advanced Science (Hons Class I), and was awarded the University Medal in Medical Microbiology and Immunology before receiving her PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics in 2012 from the University of New South Wales. During her PhD under the mentorship of Prof Ian Dawes, Dr Ayer studied the genetic basis of how cells maintained their redox state and the role of antioxidant using microbial model organisms.
In 2013 she joined the Vascular Biology Laboratoryat the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute and in 2016 was promoted to Senior Post-Doctoral Scientist and is also a conjoint lecturer at the University of New South Wales. Dr Ayer has a passion for understanding how cells work and using innovative approaches to scientific discovery.
At the Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Dr Ayer has been using her expertise in redox biology and biochemistry, and genome-wide screening to study the processes that underlie vascular diseases. Dr Ayer’s currently studies the lipid coenzyme Q, and how coenzyme Q levels can be increased in diseases such as heart failure, atherosclerosis and diabetes to treat and or prevent disease.
In 2020, Dr Ayer moved to the Heart Research Institute where she is continuing her heart research as a Senior Research Officer.
Acknowledgement of Country
The Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute acknowledges Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.
