Ernie Jennings

Ernie Jennings is an Associate Professor of Anatomy at James Cook University's College of Medicine and Dentistry. He holds a Ph.D. from University College London (1999) and researches neural excitability mechanisms in pain conditions, particularly orofacial disorders like migraines and temporomandibular joint pain.

His laboratory employs behavioral assays, protein analysis, and electrophysiology to study ion channel dysfunction in trigeminal ganglion neurons. Current projects investigate pediatric pain pathways and calcium signaling in venom-induced neurotoxicity.

Publications focus on translational pain research, including clinical studies of dental anesthesia and periodontal therapies. Recurring themes include ion channel modulation, inflammation-mediated hypersensitivity, and neuropathic pain pathways.

He mentors five graduate students in projects spanning dementia-related oral health and 3D periodontal modeling. Collaborative work includes venom bioactivity studies with marine biology researchers.