Today on ‘Called To Teach’ Tania speaks with scientist and researchers Dr Kurtis Budden about the immune system, it’s functionality, why God gave us  an immune system, how to keep it healthy and strong, whether a child’s immune system is different to an adults, what are some of Dr Budden’s early childhood memories of being raised in a Christian home, how Dr Budden became a Christian, why he decided to study science specifically in the area of immunology and lung health, and whether the immune system is different for each sex. Plus so much more!

Guest Bio:
Dr. Kurtis Budden is an early career researcher in the Priority Research Centre for Healthy Lungs and the Hunter Medical Research Institute Immune Health Research Program. He received his PhD in Immunology and Microbiology from the University of Newcastle in 2020, for his work investigating the use of microbial metabolites to treat chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Since then, his work has expanded to investigate the broader involvement of the lung and gastrointestinal microbiome in a range of chronic diseases, including asthma, COPD, lung cancer and healthy ageing. In particular, his work has focused on investigating the modification of the microbiome and host immune functions by targeted dietary interventions. This has included both fundamental (basic) research and clinical trials.Dr Budden is passionate about seeing medical research used to alleviate human suffering, particularly in under-served communities, and hopes that his research will be a part of that process. He is also enthusiastic about helping students and young researchers to develop to their full potential. Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his wife, daughter (3yo) and son (<1).