PhD (Dr rer nat) Genetics; BSc, MSc Biology; GCLTHE Dr Martin Pal is an accomplished academic with more than 12 years of research and teaching experience, and a recognised leader in genome editing and CRISPR technology. Since receiving his PhD in 2012 from one of the leading institutes in gene targeting technologies, Dr Pal performed postdoctoral research at four of Australia’s preeminent medical research institutes (WEHI, JCSMR (ANU), Garvan, Baker IDI), before taking up a lecturer position in 2021 with Charles Sturt University. Throughout his career, Dr Pal published his work in high-impact journals including Cell and Nature, and his research has attracted over $5 million in competitive grant funding. At Charles Sturt, Dr Pal has affiliations with both the Gulbali Institute and the Rural Health Research Institute. Dr Martin Pal is an enthusiastic science educator committed to creating an environment where students can thrive. Drawing on his extensive background in genome editing and disease research, he guides students through foundational and advanced scientific concepts, with a focus on making complex molecular technologies—such as CRISPR—accessible and engaging. He has developed a growing portfolio of online educational resources showcasing these advanced technologies. Dr Martin Pal leverages CRISPR technologies for both disease modelling and discovery‑driven genetic engineering, and for developing rapid, reliable pathogen detection through CRISPR diagnostics—with applications spanning agriculture and rural and regional health. He has secured more than $5 million in competitive research funding, including an NHMRC Ideas Grant (2021–2025), RRC funding (THRIIVE; 2022–2025), and a German Research Foundation Fellowship (2014–2016). His work has been published in high‑impact journals such as Cell and Nature, and he is widely recognised for contributions to genome editing, with features in podcasts and the media. He maintains active cross‑disciplinary collaborations, including with Prof Jade Forwood, investigating nuclear import mechanisms of oncogenic and tumour‑suppressor genes to uncover new therapeutic avenues. As a member of both the Gulbali Institute and the Rural Health Research Research Institute, Dr Pal contributes to translational research focused on improving agricultural outcomes and addressing key health challenges faced by regional and rural communities.
Genetics3911195
Dr Martin Pal
Senior Lecturer in Medical Science
Wagga Wagga
Building 288 Room 248
Dr Pal has held a range of leadership positions at the University, particularly in Graduate Research leadership. His roles have included Acting Sub‑Dean for Research and Graduate Studies (Faculty of Science and Health), Acting Head of School for Research and Graduate (School of Dentistry and Medical Sciences), and HDR Coordinator (School of Dentistry and Medical Sciences).
Alongside supervising Honours, Masters and PhD candidates, Dr Pal contributes extensively to teaching within the AIMS‑accredited Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (Pathology) program. His teaching portfolio spans Molecular Pathology, Molecular Cell Biology, and previously Workplace Learning (Clinical Placement), with a strong focus on student engagement, retention, and preparing graduates for workforce readiness. As a member of the Australian Institute of Medical and Clinical Scientists (AIMS) and the Australasian Society of Diagnostic Genomics (ASDG), he ensures his teaching aligns with contemporary professional standards and industry expectations. In 2024, he further strengthened his pedagogical expertise by completing the Graduate Certificate of Learning and Teaching in Higher Education (GCLTHE).