DoctorJack Auty

About Me

I research inflammation and the innate immune system, with a focus on tissue pathology and blood biomarkers of organ damage, particularly in the brain. I am passionate about research and I love inspiring others to learn about science.
Outside of work, nothing beats being in nature with my wife and kids.

  Research Projects

• Impact of microplastics on human and wildlife health
• Role of inflammation in Alzheimer’s disease and dementia
• Developing and repurposing drugs for inflammatory diseases
• Mechanisms that control inflammatory responses
• Tissue pathology and blood markers of organ damage (especially neurological injury)

  Research Focus

• Understanding adaptive and maladaptive signalling during inflammation
• Exploring cytokines, particularly IL-1α and IL-1β, in inflammation and disease
• Investigating triggers and modulators of IL-1 signalling
• Linking inflammatory signalling to tissue damage, pathology, and measurable circulating biomarkers

 

Outreach and Public Engagement

• Passionate about sharing science with the public
• Outreach to schools and support for curriculum development through university and high school partnerships
• Presented at outreach events, podcasts, and seminars on microplastics, dementia, Alzheimer’s, inflammation, and cannabinoid research
• More information -> www.jackauty.com and www.youtube.com/@dr.jackauty4415

  My Journey

 

• Bachelor’s in Anatomy and Neuroscience, University of Otago
• PhD in Botany and Neuroscience, focusing on cannabinoids and brain inflammation
• Research on hydrogen sulfide and neutrophils (University of Otago)
• Inflammasome and Alzheimer’s research (University of Manchester)
• Lecturer at the University of Tasmania, focusing on inflammation linked to microplastics and Alzheimer’s disease
• Master of Teaching at the University of Tasmania (completing July 2026)
• Senior Lecturer at the University of Canterbury

 

Get Involved

Interested in Honours, Master’s, or PhD research in these areas? Email me at jack.auty@canterbury.ac.nz