Exploring Resistance Optimised Dosing: Meet Rob Oakley
Hi, I’m Rob, a PhD candidate at UQCCR. My research explores whether software-optimised beta-lactam (penicillin-based) antibiotic dosing can suppress antimicrobial resistance in critically ill adults.
I’m a clinical pharmacist (MPharm) with experience in London teaching hospitals. I completed an MRes and PGDip alongside clinical work. My interest in pharmacokinetics began with observing erratic vancomycin levels, leading to a national research grant. My MRes focused on vancomycin administration timing and its pharmacokinetic impact.
Antimicrobial resistance threatens global health and economies. Evidence suggests 
dosing strategies can suppress resistant subpopulations that cause reinfection and transmission. I’m contributing to an international RCT testing whether software-guided beta-lactam dosing improves cure rates and resistance suppression compared to standard care.
My passion for personalised care and innovative tech, combined with my MRes experience, inspired this research journey. I aim to implement and refine this intervention clinically. If successful, I hope to support its rollout across Australia and globally.
A bit more about me; I love the outdoors and endurance sports. To build community, I recently completed an IronMan triathlon in Cairns (3.8km swim, 180km cycle, 42.2km run).
