Facts & figures
Global leaders in physiology
- 1883 discipline is established
- #2 in Australia 2018 QS Subject Rankings
- #10 in the world 2018 QS Subject Rankings
- 16 discipline research laboratories
Facts & figures
Anderson Stuart Building
We are part of the School of Medical Sciences and have a rich tradition of research in physiology. Established in 1883 by Sir Thomas Anderson Stuart, we have been an integral part of the University's research and teaching activities since its early days.
Our principal aim is to discover the origins of human diseases by exploring the fields of biology and medicine, especially as they relate to the nervous system, cardiovascular system and muscular systems. Basic research into the mechanisms by which these systems function is paramount. Such research will allow for improved methods of preventing, diagnosing and treating diseases.
We teach in the Faculty of Science, Sydney Medical School, Sydney Dental School and Sydney Pharmacy School.
We have made many significant contributions in the field of physiology.
Physiology is the study of the functions, mechanisms and structures of living organisms. It utilises the experimental methods as well as the techniques and concepts of the physical and chemical sciences.
Research is aimed at the integration of the various activities of cells, tissues and organs at the level of the intact organism. In many instances the solutions to physiological problems are of practical value in medicine or help in our understanding of our bodies and those of other animals.
There are a number of ways you can study physiology units as an undergraduate student at the University of Sydney.
You may choose to undertake either a:
Physiology is also an important part of an interdisciplinary major in neuroscience. Although there are no first-year units in physiology, we recommended that in first year you study chemistry (required), molecular biology, maths and physics.
You can undertake honours in physiology through Bachelor of Science (Honours) or Bachelor of Medical Science (Honours).
Honours in physiology is open to internal and external applicants who meet the entry requirements.
For more information about eligibility and taking an honours year, visit our honours page.
You can study physiology through these postgraduate degrees:
The University offers a range of research opportunites to help you pursue your passion. You can undertake a:
For more information, please visit our postgraduate research page or contact the Postgraduate Coordinator, Professor Frank Lovicu:
Phone: +61 2 9351 5170
Email: frank.lovicu@sydney.edu.au
In second year, your lectures have an emphasis on cellular neurophysiology; muscle; blood; respiration; the cardiovascular, renal, gastrointestinal, endocrine, reproductive, sensory and motor systems; and principles of data analysis.
*It is recommend that students interested in gaining a neuroscience major via the NEUR pathway also take NEUR3005/NEUR3905.
We pursue knowledge about the normal and abnormal function of the body, with laboratories organised by the general theme of their research. Most of our laboratories are in the Anderson Stuart Building on Camperdown campus, and are part of the Bosch Institute.
Every Monday at 1pm, Room N248 Anderson Stuart Building