Rate Professor Andrew Pask

Professional Summary: Professor Andrew Pask

Professor Andrew Pask is a distinguished evolutionary biologist and geneticist at the University of Melbourne, Australia. Renowned for his groundbreaking work in developmental biology and the genomics of extinct species, he has made significant contributions to the understanding of marsupial and monotreme evolution.

Academic Background and Degrees

Professor Pask holds a PhD in Molecular Biology from La Trobe University, Australia, where he focused on developmental genetics. His academic training has equipped him with a robust foundation in evolutionary and molecular sciences, which he has applied extensively in his research career.

Research Specializations and Academic Interests

Andrew Pask's research primarily focuses on:

• Genomics and developmental biology of marsupials and monotremes.
• Evolutionary biology, particularly the genetic mechanisms behind species divergence.
• De-extinction science, including efforts to resurrect extinct species like the Tasmanian tiger (thylacine) through genetic technologies.

Career History and Appointments

Professor Pask has held several prestigious academic positions, reflecting his expertise and leadership in the field:

• Professor of Evolutionary Biology, School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne (current).
• Head of the Thylacine Integrated Genetic Restoration Research (TIGRR) Lab, University of Melbourne.
• Previous research and teaching roles at institutions such as the University of Connecticut, USA, and other Australian universities.

Major Awards, Fellowships, and Honors

Professor Pask has been recognized for his innovative contributions to science with several accolades, including:

• Australian Research Council (ARC) Future Fellowship for his work on marsupial genomics.
• Recognition in international media and scientific communities for his pioneering de-extinction research.

Key Publications

Andrew Pask has authored numerous influential papers and articles in high-impact journals. Some notable publications include:

• 'The genome of the thylacine (Thylacinus cynocephalus)' - Nature Communications (2017).
• 'Marsupial and monotreme genomes reveal unique evolutionary patterns' - Genome Research (2009).
• Multiple papers on developmental gene expression in marsupials published in journals such as PNAS and Developmental Biology.

Influence and Impact on Academic Field

Professor Pask's work has had a transformative impact on evolutionary biology and genomics. His research on the thylacine genome has not only advanced scientific understanding of extinct species but also opened new avenues in de-extinction and conservation biology. His leadership in the TIGRR Lab at the University of Melbourne positions him at the forefront of genetic restoration efforts, inspiring global discussions on biodiversity and species revival.

Public Lectures, Committees, and Editorial Contributions

Andrew Pask is actively engaged in the scientific community through:

• Delivering public lectures and keynote addresses on genomics and de-extinction at international conferences and universities.
• Contributing to editorial boards of prominent journals in evolutionary biology and genetics.
• Participation in scientific committees focused on conservation and genetic research initiatives.