Dr Ainslie Derrick-Roberts is a Research Fellow at the Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia, working in collaboration with industry partner Calix Ltd. She leads research on the development of alternative antimicrobial agents to treat skin conditions in livestock, aiming to improve animal health and productivity. With a Bachelor of Medical and Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and a PhD in Genetic Medicine from the University of Adelaide, Ainslie has built a strong foundation in mouse models, biochemistry, molecular and cell biology — and more recently, microbiology.

Her current work with SAAFE focuses on evaluating the antibacterial properties of magnesium oxide-based microparticles, developed by Calix. Using a combination of in vitro and in vivo approaches, she’s assessing their safety and efficacy against wound infections, with the goal of producing novel treatments that reduce the need for antibiotics in intensive animal production systems. Her lab-based research involves culturing cells and bacteria, running viability assays, performing microscopy, and using molecular techniques to understand the particles’ mechanisms of action.

Ainslie’s interest in AMR was sparked while developing more complex infection models for treatment screening in 2022. These models better reflect real-world infections and antibiotic resistance. Since joining SAAFE, her passion for tackling AMR has only grown — particularly through developing alternatives with strong antibacterial activity that don’t rely on traditional antibiotics. She’s also keenly aware of the importance of raising public awareness, noting how surprised people often are when learning about the future risks of antibiotic resistance.

Outside the lab, Ainslie enjoys the outdoors — she’s a regular at her local Parkrun and loves exploring trails on weekend hikes. She also relishes time spent cooking and hosting relaxed dinner parties with friends.