Dr. Noor Jarbou
PhD in Neuroscience, MSc in Genetics and Molecular Medical science
Lecturer - Medical Science-645611
School of Health, Medical and Applied Sciences
- n.jarbou@cqu.edu.au
- ORCID: 0009-0003-2745-9161
- (07) 4930 9894
-
Rockhampton North
6 - 2-35
About Me
I am a passionate medical researcher dedicated to improving clinical approaches and enhancing patient outcomes. I earned my PhD by investigating antenatal depression, assessing current medications, and exploring the potential antidepressant effects of physical activity. My study was a preclinical investigation utilizing both behavioral and molecular approaches, providing valuable insights into the intersection of mental health and physical wellness, specifically during pregnancy. I am currently an active research member at CQU, where I continue to contribute to groundbreaking studies in medical science.
In addition to my research, I have a deep passion for teaching and mentoring the next generation of medical professionals. I am always enthusiastic about engaging with brilliant new students who continually inspire me with their energy and fresh perspectives. I strive to provide them with comprehensive resources, cutting-edge knowledge, and unwavering support to ensure their success in their future careers. My goal is to foster an environment of curiosity and innovation, empowering students to become leaders in their fields and make significant contributions to medical science.
Furthermore, I am a dedicated advocate for diversity and inclusion. I actively promote activities and initiatives that support a diverse and inclusive environment within academia and research. I believe that a diverse and inclusive community fosters creativity, innovation, and a broader range of perspectives, all of which are essential for advancing medical science and improving health outcomes. By advocating for diversity and inclusion, I aim to create a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for all students and colleagues, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to succeed and contribute meaningfully to our shared goals.
My dual commitment to research and education reflects my belief in the synergy between scientific inquiry and practical application. By bridging the gap between research and clinical practice, I aim to advance our understanding of complex health issues and translate these findings into effective treatments and interventions. Whether in the lab or the classroom, my mission is to drive progress in medical research and education, ultimately improving health outcomes for individuals and communities.
General
Background
I earned my master's degree in medical science, majoring in Genetics and Molecular Science, from Jordan. During my master's program, I conducted an in-depth investigation into the prevalence of two critical mutations of the MTHFR enzyme in the Jordanian population, contributing to a better understanding of genetic variations and their implications on health and providing recommendations accordingly.
Throughout my master's studies, I also served as a teaching assistant for medical science subjects, where I developed a passion for education and mentoring students. This role allowed me to gain valuable experience in teaching and supporting students in their academic journeys.
Following my master's degree, I worked as a senior pathologist with the Jordan Ministry of Health for over eight years. In this position, I was based at an educational hospital where I trained 25 medical science students every semester. My responsibilities included teaching them basic lab work procedures across all departments and explaining the theoretical principles behind various techniques and procedures. This role enabled me to combine my expertise in genetics and molecular science with practical laboratory skills, providing comprehensive training to future medical professionals.
I am currently an active researcher. In addition to my academic responsibilities, my primary research focuses are maternal mental health and the empowerment of minoritized women in academia.
Universities Studied At
Jordan University of Science and Technology
University of Wollongong
Universities Worked At
Jordan University of Science and Technology
University of Wollongong
Awards
- 2025: CQU, ECRF
- 2022: UOW, PitchX, the Best Pitch award
- 2022: UOW, SMAH HDR Student Travel Grant
- 2022: Research funding/the inaugural Vice-Chancellors – Equality, Diversity, Inclusion Transformation Fund ($4,462)
- 2022: iAccelerate, Active program Scholarship Award
- 2021: ISDP Student/Postdoc Member Travel / Abstract Award
- 2021: Faculty Top-Up Scholarship award, SMAH, UOW
- 2018-2021: Australian Rotary Health Funding Partner Ph.D. Scholarship Award
Media Citations
1- Podcast: Luminaries: Unravelling the biology and treatment of depression (2023)
2- Interviewed as an inspiring success at my 2023 University of Wollongong graduation: 2023 | Neuroscience graduate reflects on long road to PhD - University of Wollongong – UOW
Previous teaching
- 2 years as a Lecturer- CQU
- 6 months as a Casual academic staff at UOW Global Enterprises
- 4 years as a Laboratory Demonstrator - University of Wollongong (UOW)
- 3 years as a Teacher- Amity College-Shellharbour, NSW
- 8 years as Practical Educator - Jordanian Ministry of Health
- 3 years Lecturer and Teaching Assistant, Medical Science Department - Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST)
Professional Experience
- 1 year Research Assistant - University of Wollongong (UOW)
- 6 months as a Technical Officer- University of Wollongong (UOW)
- 6 months as a Project/Support Officer- University of Wollongong (UOW)
- 4 years Laboratory Demonstrator - University of Wollongong (UOW)
- 8 years Senior Pathologist - Jordanian Ministry of Health
Professional Memberships
1- Australian Institute of Medical Scientists
2- Centre > Health Equity in Regional and Remote Communities (C>HERRC)
Responsibilities
Teaching & Learning
1- Deliver high‑quality lectures, tutorials, and laboratory sessions in Medical Science.
2- Develop learning materials, practical sessions, and assessments aligned with curriculum requirements.
3- Support student learning by providing timely feedback and academic guidance.
Laboratory Management & Safety
1- Oversee laboratory setup and ensure compliance with safety protocols and regulations.
2- Maintain accurate laboratory documentation and support safe handling of equipment and materials.
3- Model and reinforce best practices in laboratory conduct and scientific integrity.
Curriculum & Assessment
1- Design, review, and update unit content to ensure alignment with current scientific standards.
2- Develop assessment tasks that measure student competence in scientific knowledge and practical skills.
3- Participate in moderation and quality‑assurance processes to maintain academic standards.
Student Support & Mentoring
1- Provide academic advising and mentoring to support student progression and success.
2- Encourage student engagement through accessible communication channels and constructive feedback.
3- Promote equity, wellbeing, and inclusion within the learning environment.
Research & Scholarship
1- Engage in scholarly activity relevant to Medical Science and education.
2- Integrate evidence‑based practice and current research findings into teaching.
3- Contribute to the advancement of scientific knowledge through publications and collaboration.
Professional & Institutional Service
1- Contribute to School and University committees, working groups, and accreditation processes.
2- Maintain professional standards in line with AIMS ethical and scientific guidelines.
3- Collaborate with colleagues, industry partners, and the scientific community to enhance teaching and research quality.
Professional Interests
Maternal Mental Health
I am deeply committed to advancing knowledge in maternal mental health, particularly the biological and environmental determinants that influence outcomes for mothers and their children. My work investigates the interplay between epigenetic mechanisms and behavioural genetics, with a focus on how epigenetic modifications shape gene expression, cellular function, and long-term health trajectories. Increasingly, my research is directed toward developing clinically informed approaches that translate scientific discovery into tangible benefits for maternal and child health.
Medical Biotechnology & Molecular Techniques
I have a strong interest in medical biotechnology, with particular focus on molecular techniques that allow us to investigate the underlying causes of genetic disorders. I am passionate about leveraging innovative laboratory methods to deepen our understanding of disease mechanisms and to support the development of novel therapeutic approaches.
Pharmaceutical Science – From Pre‑clinical to Clinical
I am also fascinated by the pharmaceutical development pipeline, including pre‑clinical modelling, translational research, and clinical implementation. I am interested in how molecular insights can support safer, more effective treatments and contribute to advancing therapeutic innovation.
Equity, Inclusion & Supporting Minoritized Women in Academia
Alongside my scientific research, I am dedicated to empowering minoritized women in academia. My professional interests include advocacy, mentorship, and research focused on improving academic pathways, fostering supportive environments, and promoting equitable participation for women who face structural and social barriers in higher education and scientific fields.
Key Achievements
Published multiple peer‑reviewed papers
1- 2026- A cross-sectional survey of Australian women’s perspectives and experiences of exercise during pregnancy, including women that experience mental illness
2- 2025- The effect of sertraline and voluntary exercise during pregnancy on litter characteristics and postpartum affective behaviour in rat dams
3- 2022- Exercise and yoga during pregnancy and their impact on depression: a systematic literature review.
Scientific Conference Contributions: national and international
1- Presented at the International Society for Developmental Psychobiology (ISDP) hybrid annual meetings (2021), contributing research on antenatal depression and epigenetic changes in rodent models
2- Presented at the Biological Psychiatry Australia Annual Scientific Meeting, 2019, 2020, & 2021.
Community & Industry Engagement
1- Guest speaker for Refugee Week (2023) and sessions with the Crime Prevention Unit (2023), demonstrating strong commitment to community outreach.
2- Luminaries: Topical Talks between Experts, 23 March, Virtual Meeting (2023); Unraveling the Biology and Treatment of Depression.
3- Delivered public talks such as “Transforming Negative Emotions Into. Positive Action” (2022) at Nan Tien Temple, engaging multicultural and broad community audiences.
4- SOBR x BPA-ECRN collaboration webinar event (2022). A quick run-through of my PhD journey, and goals/plans. 18 Oct, Virtual Meeting, (Oral Presentation).
5- UOW 3MT competition (2021) (Virtual presentation).
Provided mentorship and guidance to STEM initiatives supporting women from culturally diverse backgrounds (2019-2023).
Computer Software
- PCR/qPCR analysis software
- Microsoft Office Suite
- SPSS
- GraphPad Prism
- Falcon Brain Imaging software
Industry Reports
Not yet
Editor
No formal editorial roles to date.
Consultancy Work
No formal external consultancy undertaken to date; provide internal academic and laboratory support within CQUniversity as required.
Recent Research Projects
Research Supervision
Accreditation
I am currently accredited for supervision in the following:
- 4003 Biomedical Engineering
- 3209 Neurosciences
- 4702 Cultural Studies
- 3102 Bioinformatics and computational biology
- 3299 Other biomedical and clinical sciences
- 4299 Other health sciences
Current Capacity
Research Interests
Other biomedical and clinical sciences - Other biomedical and clinical sciences not elsewhere classified
Health services and systems - Digital health
Health services and systems - Health informatics and information systems
Health services and systems - Mental health services
Health services and systems - Rural and remote health services
Public health - Health equity