Western Australian Institute for Medical Research & The University of Western Australia
Research Field: Molecular Endocrinology and Pharmacology
Associate Professor Pfleger’s research is focussed on ‘G protein-coupled receptors’ (GPCRs) a family of proteins on the surface of our cells that enable specific recognition of particular hormones and neurotransmitters. He aims to better understand how these receptors work so that better ways can be found of targeting them with medicines when required. An important facet is how these receptors
interact with each other. He and his team have developed new technologies to test interacting receptors which will hopefully lead to the development of better medicines with fewer side effects.
Kevin has participated in ‘Science Cafes’, talking to high school students about science and has engaged with State and Federal Parliament representatives about the importance of medical research. His work has been reported in many mainstream and science newspapers and magazines. He is currently planning to utilise his role as President of The University of Western Australia Researchers’
Association to increase outreach of UWA researchers with schools and the community.