Research projects in Biophysics at the University of Tasmania
1997 to 2002

Most projects involve electrophysiological techniques including the MIFE® system, which we have developed, for non-invasive measurement of ion fluxes in solution near tissue.

Specific projects of particular interest for Honours or Graduate studies are described at the bottom of this page.


Functional expression of sodium efflux systems in the plasma membrane of Arabidopsis.
[ARC funded 2001-2003.]
In this project we are investigating the mechanisms that plants use to remove excess sodium from their cells. It may be important in order to develop crops that are more tolerant of saline soils.

Auxin action in producing acid-growth and ion fluxes from plant tissues and protoplasts [ARC funded 1995-7]
This project involves measuring H+ and Ca2+ fluxes from oat coleoptiles and other tissues following treatment by auxin and fusicoccin. Cell wall exchange between H+ and Ca2+ is also included. The study of ion fluxes from individual protoplasts isolated from the tissues is of wider interest than just this project.

Feedback systems controlling root growth and nutrient transport and resonance enhancement of them [ARC funded 1997-9]
In this ongoing project we are looking at oscillations observable in ion fluxes around roots and how these are linked to growth.

Nitrogen nutrition of eucalypts
The fluxes of NH4, NO3 and H+ and their interactions are being studied in hydroponic and field conditions. This project is in collaboration with the Forestry CRC in Hobart.

Electric responses of plants to light
Action spectra of the responses are being measured to determine the pigment systems responsible. Responses to rythmical light are being related to stomatal behaviour and chaotic behaviour of non linear systems in leaves. A study of the electrophysiology of the blue light photoreceptor in Arabidopsis is funded by the Australian Research council (2000-2002).

Plants under stress
Flux measurements on plants under water, salinity, temperature or other stress are being made, with a particular view of their use for assessment of varieties with improved crop production.

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Projects particularly suitable for Honours or Graduate studies in biophysics

  1. Chaotic or oscillatory systems in electrical responses of plants to light.

    2. This project builds on our studies of oscillatory and chaotic electrical responses of plants to rhythmical and other changes of light intensity. It will involve shining light of a range of wavelengths and at a variety of periods; measuring electrical changes using the MIFE data acquisition system; interpreting the results using theory of oscillatory and chaotic systems; relating the outcomes to physiological and biochemical systems in the plants.
  2. Chilling tolerance of plants related to ion transporters in membranes.

    3. This project builds on our recent work showing the existence of critical temperatures for ion fluxes at the surface of roots. Baseline studies will be done to find the critical temperatures for the main ion transporters in several plants. Ion fluxes will be measured using the MIFE system. Results will be related to membrane properties. ARC funding is being sought.
  3. Salt or drought stress effects on plant electric and ion flux changes.

    4. This project is to find out about the fundamental mechanisms by which salinity or lack of water can cause damage to plant growth. Measurements of ion fluxes using the MIFE system will be made to identify the relevant ions and to relate to growth and other physiological processes. The study should lead to methods to assist development of stress resistant cultivars. The 2001-2003 ARC-funded project is the main present focus.
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