Alex Trollope
- alexandra.trollope@jcu.edu.au
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5349-7952- Associate Professor
- Anatomy & Pathology
Contact Details
- +61 47313258
- alexandra.trollope@jcu.edu.au
-
1 James Cook Drive
Townsville
Queensland
4811
Biography
I completed both my undergraduate and postgraduate studies at the University of Portsmouth (UK) and received my PhD in molecular biology in 2008. I moved to Australia for a 1 year position in the JCU vascular biology unit as a Post-doctoral researcher (2009). I was subsequently offered a 3 year position at Bristol University (UK) as a Post-doctoral Research Associate (2010-2012). During my time at Bristol University I started teaching into their undergraduate courses and found that I really enjoyed this aspect of academia. I moved back to Australia in 2013 as an anatomy lecturer at JCU and was promoted to Senior Lecturer in 2018.
I am an enthusiastic and engaging anatomist with over a decade of experience in educating undergraduate students in Allied Health, Medicine, Pharmacy and Biomedicine. I have received a Teaching Citation for my outstanding contribution to student learning, which was entered into the Australian Awards for University Teaching (AAUT) and I have been awarded 3 Inclusive Practice awards. My teaching has been strongly influenced by transitional pedagogy, focusing on the transition of students into university life. My use innovative online and blended learning resources has been recognised by the university and has showcased as exemplar on a number of occasions. My passion for teaching extends beyond the university and into the local community, where I teach anatomy and run workshops at local schools and events.
My research focuses on stroke a major worldwide health concern with devasting effects for patients, especially in Northern Queensland, due to limited specialist care and remote locations. To learn more about why I am interested in this area of research you can watch my TEDx Cairns talk HERE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4kz-bWmz9KI
I am also interested in the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) in particular the development of technology and its use within the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework.
For more information on me and the Anatomy Team please see our JCUAnatomy Facebook Page 😊
Research
Research Interests
Stroke Research
My research is focused on stroke and its pathophysiology. Stroke is a condition where there is interrupted blood flow to the brain, this can be temporary or permanent but the consequences can be devasting. A major component factor in the clinical outcome for the patient is the time that it takes to treat them and essentially if possible established blood flow to the area of the bran that have been affected. Early detection can save lives and we are looking about potential biomarkers of stroke. Another important area of research is a more targeted approach with treatment, focusing on the brain tissue which can be recovered (penumbra).
Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL)
Technology enabled learning is an important component of teaching and trialing new and innovative technologies is another area of research that interests me. Anatomy is a subject which is very content heavy and implementing new and exciting technologies can assist students with learning the material through increased engagement.
Projects
Teaching
Teaching Interests
Anatomy is a fascinating area of science and is a core component of many disciplines. I love teaching anatomy and exploring new and exciting ways to deliver the content. Effective teaching is inspiring, motivating and research-informed, this is one of the Core Principles from JCU's Learning and Teaching Policy, which I incorporate into all of my teaching. Successful teaching requires careful consideration of the levels of knowledge required, methods of delivery, and approaches to student support. In order to accommodate a very diverse range of learning styles and abilities, I have developed a suite of blended learning tools and resources that can be adapted for each individual cohort. I also work closely with subject and course coordinators and other teaching staff to ensure the relevant content is delivered at the appropriate level always keeping in mind that the students are at the heart the university.
I am the coordinator of the MBBS6 Research Activity, which is an essential component of the MBBS program strengthening research in the medical curriculum and supporting students with their research. This activity requires >200 students to individually plan a research project (Task 1) from which they receive feedback and then they submit a research proposal (Task 2).
Research Advisor Accreditation
Advisor Type
Primary
Research Advisor Accreditation
Role
Chair; Independent Academic