Jane Hanrahan

Professor Jane Hanrahan is a leading academic in the School of Pharmacy at the University of Sydney, where she holds the rank of Professor in Pharmaceutical Sciences. She has served on the University of Sydney Academic Board since 2002 and chairs the Undergraduate Studies Committee, with prior roles in the Therapeutic Goods Administration Advisory Committee on Prescription Medicines (2013). Her career spans postdoctoral research at Cardiff (1996-97), lectureships in Pharmacology (1997-2002), and progressive promotions to Professor (2014).

Education:

• BSc (Hons), University of Sydney
• PhD, University of Warwick (UK)
• Graduate Diploma in Educational Studies (Higher Education)

Her research focuses on GABA receptors in anxiety, sleep disorders, schizophrenia, epilepsy, and learning/memory, with an emphasis on synthesizing conformationally restrained GABA analogues and exploring natural products from traditional herbal medicines. Key themes include neuropharmacology, medicinal chemistry, and mental health.

Recent publications highlight trends in GABA receptor modulation (11/15 articles), traditional medicine analysis (4/15), and clinical pharmacy applications (4/15). Notable collaborations include work with Chebib, Johnston, and Collins on receptor-specific drug design.

Grants and Committees:

• NHMRC Project Grants (2005-2014) on GABA receptors and neuroprotection
• Chair of Academic Board Undergraduate Studies Committee
• Member of Therapeutic Goods Administration Advisory Committee