Phillip West

Background

About Phillip West

I am a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the NeuroMolecular Discovery Group at the University of Sydney. My research focuses on identifying novel disease mechanisms and therapeutic targets in motor neuron disease (MND/ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). I completed my PhD in Neuroscience at the University of Sydney, where I investigated microglial phenotypes in cytokine-mediated neuroinflammation, uncovering distinct roles for interleukin-6 and type I interferons. I strengthened my translational research skillset in industry, where I was the Head of Therapeutic Science at GenieUs Genomics. I was instrumental to the preclinical therapeutic development programs for MND, harnessed multi-omics data to uncover novel drug targets, and oversaw clinical trial collaborations with academic and industry partners. Recognising the foundational role of discovery research in driving therapeutic innovation, I returned to academic research and was recruited to the NeuroMolecular Discovery Group at the University of Sydney, where I use multi-omics and functional genomics approaches to understand the underlying disease mechanisms in MND/ALS and FTD that can be exploited for therapeutic development. With a background bridging academic research and biotech innovation, I bring expertise in molecular neuroscience and translational research. I am motivated by the challenge of turning complex biological data into actionable insights, and I am committed to developing innovative solutions that improve the lives of people living with neurodegenerative diseases.