Maria Demaria

Maria Demaria is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Immunology at Monash University, with clinical and research affiliations at the Alfred Hospital. She is actively engaged in both biomedical research and higher education innovation.

Her primary research interests lie in immunology, particularly the role of tetraspanins in regulating immune cell behavior, including T cell function, leukocyte migration, and macrophage activation. She also contributes significantly to educational research, focusing on scalable models for undergraduate career development using eportfolios.

The recent articles demonstrate a strong focus on molecular immunology, especially the regulation of cell surface receptors such as CD45, L-selectin, and integrins by tetraspanin proteins. Her work combines in vivo models with molecular and cellular techniques to elucidate mechanisms of immune cell trafficking and activation. Additionally, her educational research addresses practical challenges in large undergraduate cohorts, promoting reflective learning and career engagement.

Dr. Demaria is actively involved in professional academic communities, including the Australian and New Zealand Society for Immunology (ASI) Education Special Interest Group, where she has served as speaker, session chair, and organizer. She also contributes to the Biosciences Education Australia Network.

Scientific and Professional Activities:

• Speaker, 51st Annual Scientific Meeting of the Australian and New Zealand Society for Immunology (2023)
• Organiser and Speaker, ASI Education Special Interest Group Meetings (2023, 2024)
• Session Chair, ASI Education SIG Meeting (2024)
• Contributor to Biosciences Education Australia Network (2023)
• Member of multiple committees and working groups in immunology education

She has co-authored several peer-reviewed articles in high-impact journals such as Cell Reports, iScience, and Journal of Immunology, and her work is widely read and cited. While specific grants and student supervision details are not listed, her sustained research output and leadership in education suggest active mentorship and project leadership. She is also affiliated with collaborative networks across Australia and internationally.