Chris Tonkin

Chris Tonkin is a parasitologist in the Division of Infection and Immunity at The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research. His interests lie in understanding the molecular basis of pathogenesis in Toxoplasma and elucidating how this cunning intracellular parasite manipulates its host cells in order to survive in its animal and human hosts. Chris’ lab has become increasingly interested in understanding how latent Toxoplasma forms manipulates the mammalian brain leading to brain dysfunction and behavioural changes. The lab uses the latest parasite molecular genetics, high resolution imaging and a range of ‘omic’ technologies to probe the nature of host-Toxoplasma interactions, with the aim of devising new therapeutic strategies to prevent or cure infection.