Postdoctoral Scientist
Benjamin Seager
Bio
I am broadly interested in the molecular interactions that occur when a pathogen encounters its host.
My doctoral studies looked at invasion protein complexes that the malaria parasite deploys to recognise, and subsequently invade, red blood cells. I used structural and biophysical techniques to understand how the invasion complexes form on the surface of the parasite and how antibodies targeting these complexes can prevent parasite invasion, thereby informing rational vaccine development.
At TSL, I have shifted my focus to intracellular host-pathogen interactions. I aim to structurally characterise how plant immune receptors recognise and respond to pathogen effectors to trigger cell death. Understanding the molecular determinants of plant immunity is key to developing more resilient crops for the future.
Job history
-
2024 -
Postdoctoral scientist
The Sainsbury Laboratory, Norwich, UK -
2023 - 2024
Research Officer
Walter and Eliza Hall Institute (WEHI), Melbourne, Australia -
2019 - 2023
PhD
Walter and Eliza Hall Institute (WEHI), Melbourne, Australia