Robert Vandenberg

Professor Robert Vandenberg is a leading academic at the University of Sydney, affiliated with the School of Medical Sciences and Discipline of Pharmacology. He serves as Director of Academic Career Development and is a member of the Centre for Drug Discovery Innovation.

• PhD in Biochemistry (University of Sydney, 1989)
• Postdoctoral work at Garvan Institute and Vollum Institute
• Established Transporter Biology group in 1995
• Head of Pharmacology Discipline (2010-2022)
• Deputy Head of School of Medical Sciences (2019-2022)

His research focuses on neurotransmitter transporters and receptors, particularly their roles in chronic pain, schizophrenia, and ischemia. His team develops novel analgesics targeting glycine transporters and explores ligand-gated ion channels as targets for mitocides/insecticides.

Recent publications highlight glycine transporter inhibition, allosteric modulation, and structural biology of neurotransmitter systems. Collaborations span USYD, UTS, ANU, Albany College of Pharmacy, and University of Copenhagen.

Scientific Awards:

• Human Frontiers of Sciences Postdoctoral Fellowship
• NHMRC Senior Research Fellowship

Teaching emphasizes molecular neuropharmacology. Current projects include glycine transporter inhibitors for pain and toxins targeting Varroa mites/honeybees.