When Jayden McKinnon completed his Year 12 studies, he envisioned a future in medicine. A passionate sportsman with a keen interest in the human body, he dreamed of becoming a doctor. However, high school advisers suggested he pursue a trade, believing his skills and grades were better suited elsewhere. This advice was disheartening but it did not extinguish his aspirations; instead, it fueled a determination that would lead him into the demanding field of motor neurone disease (MND) research.
“I don’t look like a stereotypical scientist,” Jayden remarks with a smile. “I looked like a rugby player.” He was deeply involved in sports, playing representative basketball and rugby league, and enjoying the camaraderie of his teammates. Despite not excelling in science during high school, he was resolute in proving his potential. He turned to a Biology for Dummies textbook and dedicated a year to intensive study, ultimately gaining early admission to the University of Wollongong (UOW) to pursue a science degree.
Now, Jayden is on the verge of completing a PhD in analytical biochemistry at UOW’s Molecular Horizons. His research utilizes advanced mass spectrometry imaging to investigate how lipids and fats behave in the context of MND, a complex neurodegenerative disorder. This intricate work excites him, and he is eager to share his insights.
“I love it so much. I’m always thinking about it,” he shares. “It feels like a hobby, and somehow I get paid to do it.” Inside UOW’s Yerbury Lab, Jayden’s inquisitiveness and creativity distinguish him as a researcher. His projects focus on visualizing lipid alterations in spinal cord tissue, delving into the changes within individual motor neurons. He collaborates with an exceptional team of scientists dedicated to unraveling the mysteries of MND.
Dr. Jeremy Lum, an MND researcher and leader of the team following the passing of renowned scientist Professor Justin Yerbury in 2023, praises Jayden’s approach. “He is one of the most curious young scientists I’ve worked with. He constantly proposes new and innovative ideas, supported by a can-do attitude.”
Utilizing the world-class imaging technology at Molecular Horizons, one of the few facilities globally capable of examining single cells in such depth, Jayden and his supervisors—Dr. Lum, Associate Professor Shane Ellis, and Professor Todd Mitchell—can map biological processes with unprecedented resolution. “This unique imaging platform allows us to see exactly what’s going wrong, when, and in which cell type,” Jayden explains. “By understanding how lipids are dysregulated in motor neurons, we can begin to identify which ones might contribute to cell degeneration and how to target them in new therapies.”
The ambitious nature of his research is driven by persistence and vision, traits that have propelled Jayden far beyond the expectations set for him years ago. Once a high school rugby league star advised to consider a trade, he now stands at the forefront of research that could redefine how scientists understand and treat MND.
“I love the challenge, and I love solving problems with real-world impact. Our goal is to drive a personalized approach to MND treatment, rather than a one-size-fits-all method,” Jayden states. “I could not be undertaking this research without acknowledging all the groundbreaking work that has come before me in the Yerbury Lab.”
As part of a collaboration with UOW, the Mercury showcases stories that provide insight into the groundbreaking research taking place in Wollongong regarding MND. This year marks the 50th anniversary of UOW, and supporting this vital research in honor of Associate Professor Justin Yerbury feels both unique and fitting.
