Mrs Ha Duong

Ha is a dedicated researcher with a strong background in biological sciences and biotechnology. She joined UNSW School of Optometry & Vision Science as a Research Associate in August 2022.

Prior to her current position, Ha worked as a Program Officer at the Wildlife Conservation Society and as a Research Assistant at the Genetics Laboratory, Vietnam National University. She earned a Master's degree in Biological Science from the University of Western Australia under the prestigious Endeavour Scholarship, and a Bachelor's degree in Biotechnology from Vietnam National University. Through a combination of training, academic studies, and work experience, she has developed a robust set of laboratory skills and knowledge. This includes expertise in DNA and RNA extraction and sequencing, cell culture of different cell types, cellular assays, immunohistochemistry, and mass spectrometry.

Working alongside senior researchers at SOVS, Ha's work focuses on developing protocols for culturing primary human meibomian gland cells and using LC-MS/MS for identifying lipids produced by the meibomian gland in vitro. Concurrently, Ha is also pursuing a doctoral degree, investigating the effects of air pollutants on meibomian gland function and tear film lipid production.