
2004 – PhD Human Molecular Genetics, University of London (Imperial College) - UK
2000 – BSc (Hons) Genetics, University of Manchester - UK
Dr Blackburn leads the DNA and RNA Methodologies team at the Garvan Institute of Medical Research. With a diverse background in a variety of molecular techniques and research disciplines, he is an expert in the clinical implementation of next-generation sequencing and targeted sequencing technologies. The focus of Dr Blackburn’s research group is the development and application of innovative methods and novel approaches to overcome current scientific limitations. This includes the creation of two novel tests for the detection of fusion genes in cancer, and undertaking the Garvan-based sequencing for the Molecular Screening and Therapeutics (MoST) program of Omico Australia – the objective of which is to translate genomic screening into health outcomes for cancer patients with advanced or metastatic disease and an unmet clinical need.
Keywords: cancer genomics; cancer transcriptomics; haematological malignancies; solid tumours
Blackburn, J. Improving Fusion Gene Detection and Immune Response Assessment in Sarcoma Patients. ANZSA Research Grant 2020
Blackburn, J. Improving Sarcoma Cancer Diagnostics Through Implementation of a Novel Fusion Gene Test. NFMRI Research Grant, 2020-2021.
Blackburn, J., Heyer, E.E., Trahair, T.N. Accurately Diagnosing Fusion Genes in Paediatric and Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Sarcomas. St. Vincent’s Clinic Foundation Research Grant, 2019.
Mercer, T.R., Dinger, M.E., Burnett, L., Blackburn, J. Diagnosis of Inherited Genetic Disorders Using DNA Reference Standards. NHMRC Project Grant, 2018-2020.
Mercer, T.R., Gill, D., Blackburn, J. A Universal Clinical Test for Gene Fusions in Blood Cancer. NHMRC Project Grant, 2016-2018.
Cancer Genetics, Cancer Diagnostics