CQUniversity alumnus and former Capricornia College resident Matt Johnson PhD has fond memories of his time as an Applied Science undergraduate student in Rockhampton...

He remembers having aspirations of working in forensic science after an inspirational Capricornia College dinner where the special guest had played a major role in the invention of the alcohol breathalyser that is used by police officers today.

Capricornia College and CQUniversity Alumnus Dr Matt JohnsonAlthough he later changed his mind about forensics, the encounter encouraged him to continue with postgraduate studies in biotechnology which he completed at QUT and later found himself "knee deep in a PhD investigating the molecular genetics of migraine headache at Griffith University".

Today Dr Johnson works as a Molecular Geneticist investigating the genetics of human disease at the Southwest Foundation for Biomedical Research in San Antonio, Texas, USA.

"I am primarily involved in trying to identify the genetic mechanisms involved in preeclampsia," Dr Johnson explained.

Preeclampsia is a common, human specific pregnancy disorder in which the expectant mother develops high blood pressure and elevated levels of protein in her urine (generally an indicator of renal damage).

"To date, the only effective means of treating preeclampsia is early delivery of the baby; however this can compromise the full development of the baby and can also instigate long term physiological problems for the child."

"In worst case scenario, both mother and unborn baby can die from preeclampsia."

Capricornia College valedictorians from 1997.The condition has also been linked to cardiovascular disease which provides the link to Dr Johnson's secondary area of research, investigating the genetic mechanisms of cardiovascular diseases and their related risk factors.

"The goal of the genetic research is to identify genetic mutations involved in these diseases which may provide an avenue for drug targets for which we, in future collaboration with pharmaceutical companies, can consider the possibility of developing therapeutic interventions to either lessen the burden of suffering for these individuals or better still develop a cure."

As a former Secretary and Vice-President of the College Members Association in 1996 and 1997 respectively, Dr Johnson is keen to attend the upcoming 40^th anniversary celebrations for Capricornia College.

"Living with a great bunch of people from all walks of life [at Capricornia College 1994-1997] studying a plethora of educational programs and in such a pleasant environment enabled me to spark a lot of friendships and have a diverse cross section of great mates for life."

Dr Matt Johnson crams for exams on the lawns of Capricornia College.Capricornia College will celebrate the past 40 years of university residential life with a reunion anniversary on Saturday June 20, 2009.

If you are a former Capricornia College student and would like to participate in the celebrations please contact Office of Development and Graduate Relations via email graduate-enquiries@cqu.edu.au .

Matt and friends during a Capricornia College social event at Billy's Blues Bar.