David I. Francis is a Geneticist based in Flemington Road, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
Genetics can explain a lot, but it can also feel confusing and overwhelming. David helps families and carers when there are questions about how genes may be affecting a child’s development, health, or long-term wellbeing. In many cases, this includes looking at genetic conditions linked with learning, communication, and behaviour, including Autism Spectrum Disorder.
He works with a range of genetic and developmental diagnoses, including Fragile X Syndrome, Angelman Syndrome, Prader-Willi Syndrome, and 15q11.2 microdeletion. At times, the focus is also on mosaicism, where changes in genes are present in some cells but not all. That can change how a condition looks and how it may progress.
David also helps when brain development differences are part of the story. This can include conditions such as bilateral perisylvian polymicrogyria, polymicrogyria, cerebellar hypoplasia, cortical dysplasia, and focal or multifocal malformations in neuronal migration. Some people are referred when movement or coordination issues come up too, including movement disorders.
Beyond development and the brain, his work extends to other genetic-related health issues. This includes cystic fibrosis, spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), and drug induced dyskinesia, where movement problems can happen due to medication effects. He also deals with autoimmune conditions such as APECED (Autoimmune Polyendocrinopathy-Candidiasis-Ectodermal Dystrophy) and Autoimmune Polyglandular Syndrome Type 2.
Patients may be referred from different services across Melbourne and beyond, especially when the cause is unclear or when past results do not fully explain symptoms. Over time, genetics can add clarity, help guide next steps, and support better planning for care.
While specific education details and years of experience are not listed here, David’s work covers a wide spread of genetic conditions, from single gene conditions and chromosomal changes to complex patterns like mosaicism. He also stays across new findings in genetics as they come out, so families can get the most current view possible.