Current Scholars

Professor Carissa Byrne Hessick Distinguished Chair

“My Fulbright research will examine how criminal sentencing has developed in Australia, as well as how Australian sentencing is similar to and different than criminal sentencing in the U.S., England & Wales, Scotland, Ireland, New Zealand, and Canada.”

Carissa is the Ransdell Distinguished Professor of Law at the University of North Carolina. Her research focuses on criminal sentencing, plea bargaining, elected prosecutors, and the structure of the criminal justice system. In addition to her faculty position at the University of North Carolina, she serves as the reporter to the Sentencing Task Force of the American Bar Association.

For her Fulbright, Carissa will study criminal sentencing in Australia as part of a book project about sentencing in common law countries.

Professor Garry Myers FASM FRSB Distinguished Chair

“My Fulbright research aims to examine and develop synthetic mRNA vaccines in agriculture and biosecurity. COVID-19 demonstrated the effectiveness of mRNA vaccines. Novel mRNA vaccine designs are readily iterated, rapid, scalable, and are cost-effective to produce, rendering them ideal tools for the challenges of managing infectious diseases globally.”

Garry is the Director of the Australian Institute for Microbiology & Infection (AIMI) at UTS. Following his PhD at the University of Sydney, he did postdoctoral training at The Institute for Genome Research (TIGR) in Rockville, Maryland, working on microbial genomics and pathogenesis, and joined the Faculty there in 2005. In 2007, Garry co-founded the Institute for Genome Sciences (IGS) at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. In 2014, he was recruited to the University of Technology Sydney and became AIMI Director in 2019. Garry also founded and led the Vaccine & RNA Design Centre (VRDC), underpinning his Fulbright vaccine design project.

Garry’s Fulbright research aims to examine and develop synthetic mRNA vaccines in agriculture and biosecurity.

Professor Roger Narayan Distinguished Chair

Roger is a Distinguished Professor in the Joint Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of North Carolina and North Carolina State University. He is an author of over three hundred publications as well as several book chapters on the processing of biomedical materials. Roger has edited several books, including the textbook Biomedical Materials, Second Edition (Springer), the handbook Materials for Medical Devices (ASM International), the Encyclopedia of Sensors and Biosensors (Elsevier), and the Encyclopedia of Biomedical Engineering (Elsevier).

Roger’s efforts will facilitate long-term activities between RMIT University and North Carolina State University.

Professor Kurt Schwabe Distinguished Chair

“My Fulbright research explores—collaboratively—opportunities to manage aquifers in a manner that adds resilience to each region’s ability to mitigate the impacts of drought and water scarcity from a rapidly changing climate regime. The project focuses on two specific areas of groundwater management: managed aquifer recharge and water banks.”

Kurt is a Professor of Environmental Economics and Policy in the School of Public Policy at the University of California-Riverside and has a BA in Mathematics/Economics from Macalester College, an MA in Economics from Duke University, and PhD in Economics from North Carolina State University. Kurt’s research focuses primarily on generating evidence for policymakers and society of the impacts from and solutions to drought and climate change
on the water availability, access, quality, and affordability.

As a Fulbright Distinguished Chair, Kurt will focus on opportunities for society to increase resilience to drought and climate change through more informed groundwater management.

Professor Laura Crehuet Berman Senior Scholars

“My Fulbright research focuses on the interdisciplinary intersections of color, materials studies, and contemporary printmaking.”

Laura is a Professor in the Printmaking Department at Kansas City Art Institute where she has taught for over 20 years and recently received the KCAI Distinguished Achievement Award. Her scholarship focuses on color studies, printmaking, and color, and she publishes ‘Reflections on Color and Printmaking’, an online archive of in-depth artist interviews on these topics. Laura is a celebrated artist with over 30 years’ experience in creating and exhibiting printed works on paper and has exhibited her work in over 20 solo exhibitions and 150 group exhibitions both nationally and internationally.

As a Fulbright Scholar at the Centre for Creative and Cultural Research at University of Canberra, Laura’s research will investigate the history and materiality of color from the Australian perspective, with a focus on contemporary printmaking artists and publishers of printed works in Australia.

Dr Matthew Thomas Carrano Senior Scholars

“My Fulbright research will provide a detailed study of terrestrial polar ecosystems from the Cretaceous (125-100 million years ago) of Australia. Although these diverse ecosystems do not exist today, understanding their structure and composition is relevant to our modern, warming world.”

Matthew has been Curator of Dinosauria at the Smithsonian Institution since 2003, where he was lead curator for the Deep Time exhibition (2013-2019). He received his B.Sc. from Brown University (1991) and his M.Sc. (1995) and Ph.D. (1998) from the University of Chicago. Matthew studies dinosaur evolution, Mesozoic ecosystems, and the fossil record, has published dozens of scientific papers, and collected fossils in the US, Madagascar, Chile, Zimbabwe, and India. He has served the Society of Vertebrate Paleontology, Paleontological Society, and Paleobiology Database, and co-edited the journal Paleobiology.

Matthew’s Fulbright research will provide a detailed study of terrestrial polar ecosystems from the Cretaceous (125-100 million years ago) of Australia. Although these diverse ecosystems do not exist today, understanding their structure and composition is relevant to our modern, warming world.

Professor Lynn Cazabon Senior Scholars

“My Fulbright research will focus on capturing the emotional impacts of the climate crisis, engaging with people across Queensland and will lead to the creation of a participatory artwork and multifaceted public display.”

Lynn is an artist who creates site-specific, interdisciplinary projects centered on the intersection of environmental and social issues. She is a Professor of Art at University of Maryland, Baltimore County. Her work has been exhibited internationally in museums and galleries in solo and group exhibitions and as public art.

Lynn’s Fulbright project, Solastalgia: Expressions of Ecological Grief in Queensland, will focus on capturing the emotional impacts of the climate crisis by engaging with people across Queensland. Her work will lead to the creation of a participatory artwork and multifaceted public display.

Professor Connie Evashwick, ScD Senior Scholars

“My research will examine the curricula and courses of health professions education for content related to geriatrics/gerontology. The goal is to identify actions that universities could take to increase the abilities and willingness of the future health professions workforce to care for Australia’s aged, especially in rural and remote areas.”

Connie thrives at the nexus of healthcare management and academia. Her expertise includes long-term care delivery systems for the aged, community and population health, health professions education, and global health. Stanford and Harvard are her alma maters. She has had four Fulbright Specialist awards to Ghana, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Wales, all emphasising international collaboration for educating health professionals. Connie is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and Gerontological Society of America. She has published 115 papers and 17 books/ebooks. Her passion for comprehensive, quality care for the aged comes from both professional and personal experience.

Connie’s Fulbright project will focus on improving curricula for health professions education.

Professor Paul Gribben Senior Scholars

Paul is a marine ecologist and Director of the Center for Marine Science and Innovation at the University of New South Wales, and a former Australian Research Council Future Fellow. Paul’s research is focused on understanding the response of coastal marine ecosystems to environmental change and employing cross-disciplinary approaches to building more resilient marine ecosystems.

Paul will use his Fulbright Scholarship to provide a new understanding of how microbes and genetics influence the performance of threatened marine plants. This research will offer novel approaches for restoring marine plants globally.

Dr Dana E. Hunt Senior Scholars

“My Fulbright research aims to examine the impacts of disturbances such as storms, droughts, and fires on the coastal ocean. At UTS, I will compare existing microbial coastal time series from both the US and Australia to gain a better understand of global responses to disturbance.”

Dana is an Associate Professor of Microbial Ecology at the Duke University Marine Lab. Her research focus is on understanding the ecology of marine microbes through examination of their genes and lifestyles. Her lab is focuses on microbial interactions with environmental factors and other organisms, as well as how these interactions and microbial-mediated biogeochemistry will be affected by
global change.

Dana’s Fulbright research aims to examine the impacts of disturbances such as storms, droughts, and fires on the coastal ocean. At UTS, she will compare existing microbial coastal time series from both the US and Australia to gain a better understand of global responses to disturbance.

Professor Amelia Katanski Senior Scholars

“My project explores opportunities to mitigate cultural harm to Indigenous Australian students and faculty through development of a curriculum for U.S. students who will study abroad in Australia, preparing them to engage with Indigenous communities, histories, and knowledge openly and humbly with Country as teacher.”

Amelia is Professor of English and Critical Ethnic Studies at Kalamazoo College. She earned degrees (PhD, MA) in American Literature from Tufts University and an MA in American Indian Studies from UCLA. Her research focuses on how Indigenous literatures narrate Indigenous educational philosophies, legal claims to land, persistence of traditional foodways, and land-based knowledge.

Amelia’s Fulbright project explores opportunities to mitigate cultural harm to Indigenous Australian students and faculty through development of a curriculum for U.S. students who will study abroad in Australia, preparing them to engage with Indigenous communities, histories, and knowledge openly and humbly with Country as teacher.

Andras M. Komaromy, DrMedVet, PhD, DACVO, DECVO, FARVO Senior Scholars

“My Fulbright research at Macquarie University aims to develop a novel gene therapy for glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible vision loss. The proposed treatment consists of innovative gene therapy to introduce the protease inhibitor neuroserpin into the eye via a novel engineered nanoparticle.”

András is a Professor of Comparative Ophthalmology at Michigan State University (MSU). He received his veterinary degree from the University of Zurich (Switzerland). Following his internship in medicine and surgery at MSU, he performed his PhD graduate work and clinical residency at the University of Florida. András is a Diplomate of both the American and European Colleges of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO and ECVO) and a Fellow of the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO).

András’ Fulbright research at Macquarie University aims to develop a novel gene therapy for glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible vision loss.

Professor Raymond Lovett Senior Scholars

“My Fulbright aims to advance Indigenous health and wellbeing data processes through working with Native American scholars and communities in the United States and sharing Indigenous data development and implementation processes from Australia to help Native American colleagues and communities in advancing their data development, compilation, and infrastructures concerning public health.”

Ray is an Aboriginal (Ngiyampaa/Wongaibon) social epidemiologist with extensive experience in health services research, large scale data analysis for public health policy development and evaluation. Ray leads Mayi Kuwayu, the National Study of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Wellbeing, is an Executive member of the Maiam nayri Wingara Indigenous Data Sovereignty Collective in Australia and an Executive member of the Global Indigenous
Data Alliance.

Ray’s Fulbright aims to advance Indigenous health and wellbeing data processes through working with Native American scholars and communities, sharing Indigenous data development and implementation processes from Australia to help Native American colleagues and communities in advancing their data development, compilation, and infrastructures concerning public health.

Professor Laurence D. Marks Senior Scholars

Laurence is an Emeritus Professor of Materials Science and Engineering at Northwestern University. His most highly cited work is the discovery of a type of nanoparticle now known as the Marks Decahedron. He pioneered the use of high-resolution episcopic microscopy (HREM) to study the structure of nanoparticles, direct methods for surfaces with either electron or x-ray diffraction data, in-situ methods for tribology inside electron microscopes, methods of obtaining optical and structural measurements from single nanoparticles a new class of fixed-point algorithms for density functional theory calculations and more recently new fundamentals on triboelectricity. He has more than 400 refereed publications.

Laurence’s Fulbright project will see him collaborate with experts at Curtin University to explore the phenomenon of triboelectricity.

Associate Professor Louise Mewton Senior Scholars

“My Fulbright research will establish the impacts of prenatal alcohol exposure on adolescent health and neurodevelopmental outcomes. Through established translational pathways, I will ensure that my findings have an impact on the choices pregnant women make, as well as the lives of young people impacted by prenatal alcohol exposure.”

Louise is an Associate Professor and Program Lead in Lifespan and Brain Health Research at the University of Sydney’s Matilda Centre for Mental Health and Substance Use Research. She is a public health researcher with a focus on the epidemiology, assessment, prevention, and treatment of alcohol use and related disorders across the lifespan. Her research expertise spans population neuroscience, large-scale epidemiological modelling, and the development and evaluation of intervention programs across the lifespan.

As part of her Fulbright Scholarship, Louise aims to learn more about how prenatal alcohol exposure affects adolescent health and neurodevelopmental outcomes.

Professor Andrew Page Senior Scholars

“My Fulbright research aims to develop my technical skills in computational simulation for application to population suicide prevention, and to develop training and capacity building resources for dissemination to colleagues working in population health science.”

Andrew is Professor of Epidemiology in the Translational Health Research Institute at Western Sydney University. Andrew has extensive research experience in epidemiology, psychology and public health, with particular interests in the study of suicide and mental health, the social determinants of health, injury prevention, cancer screening, and maternal and child health. Andrew also has interests in the application of systems science and simulation approaches to epidemiological evidence to inform policy and health service decisions.

Andrew will work with colleagues at the Center for Mind and Culture and Boston University to develop computational simulation models of suicidal behaviour to inform policy and prevention strategies.

Associate Professor Amirali Popat Senior Scholars

“Embarking on a Fulbright research endeavor, I aim to address the formidable challenges in treating aggressive brain tumors. My focus is on developing personalized nanomedicines using an innovative hitchhiking strategy, offering a novel approach to overcome the unique complexities of these conditions.”

Amirali, an Associate Professor and Director of Research at the School of Pharmacy, University of Queensland, is making ground-breaking strides in the field of nanomedicine with a focus on developing personalized treatments for chronic diseases like Diabetes, Cancer, and Inflammatory Disorders.

Amirali’s Fulbright research at the Wyss Institute, Harvard University will involve the development and validation of hitchhiking ultrasmall nanoparticles, a pioneering approach aimed at overcoming biological barriers to effectively treat brain cancers. Adding to the significance of this endeavor is Amirali’s mentorship by Prof. Samir Mitragotri, a world-renowned scientist specialising in drug delivery.

Dr Anna Madeleine Raupach Senior Scholars

“My Fulbright project will explore the cultural implications of satellites through cross-disciplinary creative arts practice. Using a variety of artforms, this research will investigate the omnipresence of satellites that both produce and disrupt environmental data to critically address the socio-political issues of increasing network technologies under crowded skies.”

Anna is a multidisciplinary artist who engages with science and technology to address socio-political issues enmeshed with climate change. Her practice explores the friction between concurrent technological advances and environmental decline through multimedia artworks that have been exhibited across Australia and internationally.

Anna’s Fulbright project will develop cross-disciplinary creative research into the omnipresence of satellites that both produce and disrupt environmental data. Practice-led research with mixed reality and computational artforms will explore the cultural implications of human interference in orbital space to critique increasing network technologies under crowded skies.

Professor Ryan M. Richards Senior Scholars

“My Fulbright will focus on developing hybrid materials for selective carbon capture and photo-thermal processing. Photo-thermal materials generally refer to nanoscale particles that rapidly heat when exposed to light and represent an exciting frontier in potential energetically efficient driving forces for chemical processes.”

Ryan is a professor of chemistry at the Colorado School of Mines with a joint appointment at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, both in Golden, Colorado. He has made a broad range of contributions in the areas of nanoparticle synthesis (metal and metal oxides), in-situ spectroscopy, porous materials and catalysis. These systems have been applied in renewable energy technologies (such as water splitting and biomass upgrading) and environmental remediation (such as PFAS destruction, CO2 capture, re-mining). He has received numerous awards throughout his career including being selected as a Fellow of the American Chemical Society and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry.

Ryan’s Fulbright will focus on developing hybrid materials for selective carbon capture and photo-thermal processing. Photo-thermal materials generally refer to nanoscale particles that rapidly heat when exposed to light and represent an exciting frontier in potential energetically efficient driving forces for chemical processes.

Lori Andersen Spruance, PhD, CHES Senior Scholars

Lori is an Associate Professor in the Department of Public Health at Brigham Young University. Her research focuses on child nutrition programs. In the United States, she primarily focuses on the school breakfast and school lunch government programs, as well as policy approaches to improve diet. Recently, Lori has begun to explore ways to reduce the carbon footprint through dietary choices among children and adolescents.

Lori’s Fulbright research examines school-age children’s diets in Australia and their contribution to greenhouse gas emissions.

Professor Joseph Talghader Senior Scholars

Joey is currently a professor of electrical and computer engineering at the University of Minnesota. He received his degrees from Rice University (BSEE) and UC-Berkeley (MS and PhD). His group explores optical materials, directed energy technologies, infrared and terahertz detectors and imaging, and nano-optical systems. Among his honors, Joey is a fellow of Optica (Optical Society of America) and has received the Antarctic Service Medal of the United States. This year, he is the Texas Instruments Visiting Professor at Rice University.

Joey’s Fulbright research at the University of Western Australia strives to overcome a performance limit that has blocked progress in thermal infrared cameras (night vision cameras that see heat) for decades. His collaboration will create meta-optics (structures with patterns smaller than the wavelength of light) that can absorb more light with less solid material than ever before.

Robert Ivory Webb, Paul Tudor Jones II Eminent Research Professor Senior Scholars

“Anecdotal evidence in many countries suggests purchases of real estate by foreigners have disadvantaged residents by driving up real estate prices and rents. My Fulbright research aims to assess the impact of foreign capital inflows on residential real estate prices and evaluate possible policy actions to mitigate any adverse impact.”

Bob earned a PhD degree in Finance at the University of Chicago. His background includes experience in business (CME Group), government (US Commodity Futures Trading Commission, and the Executive Office of the President), supranational organizations (World Bank), and academia (University of Virginia, KAIST, University of Southern California). Bob served as Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Futures Markets for 24 years. He has authored or co-authored numerous publications in the academic literature and several books.

Bob’s Fulbright research project examines the impact of foreign capital inflows on residential real estate prices and evaluates possible policy actions to mitigate any adverse impact.

Paul Boys Professional Scholars

“My Fulbright research aims to advance the status of vocational educators and trainers to prepare students for future careers in a rapidly changing technological environment.”

Paul is the Director of the Gippsland Tech School and Mobile Tech School at TAFE Gippsland, Morwell, Australia. In this role, Paul brings a strong background in curriculum design and teacher professional practice gained through over 20 years of education leadership within the Victorian TAFE and Secondary School education sectors. Paul is responsible for maintaining the relationships between secondary schools, industry, TAFE and community sectors to promote connected education experiences for young people in Gippsland. Paul has extensive experience in chairing professional and community boards connected to education and research. In 2018, Paul was awarded a Churchill Fellowship where he undertook international research on Senior Secondary Pathway reforms in the USA and Canada. Paul was also awarded 2 ISSI Fellowships in 2014 and 2022 to research digital technologies in teaching and the application of design education in VET.

Paul’s Fulbright research aims to advance the status of vocational educators and trainers to prepare students for future careers in a rapidly changing technological environment.

Dr Dewan Mostafizur Rahman Professional Scholars

“My research experience at the University of Michigan will equip me to do more applied research on insider trading. Research in this domain will contribute positively for the Australian capital market development.”

Dewan is currently working as a Senior Lecturer in Finance at the University of Queensland. His primary research focuses on insider trading and governance. Dewan’s research work on insider trading has recently received significant media attention being syndicated across 10 outlets, including the Conversation, Business News Australia, and featured in UQ Business School’s industry research magazine, Momentum.
As a Fulbright Scholar, Dewan will collaborate with a Professor in Finance at the University of Michigan. Dewan’s Fulbright project will analyse exploitative insider trading activities and their governance. This project will help to improve insider trading policies and overall capital market development.

Dayle Stanley Professional Scholars

“My work aims to further strengthen the Alliance through establishing new Australia-US strategic foresight partnerships.”

Dayle is an Australian Government secondee to the National Security College (NSC) at the Australian National University. She is the Chief Futures Officer leading the NSC’s Futures Hub – a whole-of-nation resource to support long-term thinking, planning and policy work on issues in Australia’s national interest. She has 20 years of government experience across law enforcement, defence, environment and energy policy, including representing Australia in a range of multilateral fora.

Dayle will be hosted by the Center for Strategic & International Studies ‘Hess Center for New Frontiers’ Program. Her project will involve applying strategic foresight methods to explore the long-term trends that are shaping the future of the Indo-Pacific, including opportunities for Australia and the US to work together to enhance policy and planning to prepare for the future.

Dr Stephen Bacchi Postdoctoral Scholars

“My Fulbright research will develop the role of artificial intelligence and portable magnetic resonance imaging in the evaluation of acute unconsciousness. Unconsciousness, including new-onset coma, can herald a number of disabling or life-threatening illnesses. It is hoped that this line of work will improve outcomes for vulnerable patients in future.”

Stephen is a neurology registrar with interests in research, clinical practice, and medical education. He completed his medical degree in 2017 and his PhD in 2022, both at the University of Adelaide. Stephen is currently a Senior Lecturer at Flinders University. He has worked clinically at the Royal Adelaide Hospital, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Flinders Medical Centre, and Lyell McEwin Hospital. Stephen’s areas of research interest include healthcare systems and machine learning.

As a Fulbright Scholar, Stephen will seek to advance the evaluation of unconsciousness.

Dr Jamie Bellinge Postdoctoral Scholars

“My Fulbright research will trial a novel molecular imaging technique for the detection of thrombus within the heart and vasculature, with an aim to improve the diagnosis, prognostication and management of cardiovascular diseases.”

Jamie is an Advanced Trainee in Nuclear Medicine at Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital in Western Australia and a Clinical Lecturer at the University of Western Australia.

Jamie has a passion for research in molecular imaging of cardiovascular diseases and will be travelling to Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School to investigate a new molecular imaging technique for the non-invasive detection of thrombus, the most common cause of heart attacks and strokes. He aims to develop improved techniques for diagnosing and prognosticating cardiovascular diseases, to help reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease in Australia.

Tanika Eaves Postdoctoral Scholars

“Australia leads industrialized nations in achieving optimal perinatal health outcomes. Global study creates opportunities for adapting lessons learned from other countries. My Fulbright research aims to inform perinatal care practice and policies in Australia and the United States by contributing to scholarly and community discourse about perinatal healthcare inequities.”

Tanika is an Assistant Professor of Social Work at The Egan School of Nursing and Health Studies at Fairfield University. Her clinical and research interests include: reflective supervision and other workplace supports promoting workforce well-being, culturally responsive parent-infant psychotherapeutic interventions, and achieving equity in maternal-infant health and mental
health outcomes.

Tanika’s Fulbright Scholarship will see her partner with midwifery faculty at the University of Newcastle’s College of Health, Medicine and Well-Being to investigate the impacts of midwifery-led and standard perinatal health care on Australian pregnant, birthing and parenting individuals and their infants.

Dr Sam Harvey CPSP Postdoctoral Scholars

“My Fulbright research will inform the development of more equitable, socially responsive aphasia services that will produce better outcomes for people recovering from aphasia and reduce the care and cost burden of aphasia on families, communities, and society.”

Sam is a speech pathologist and postdoctoral researcher in the Queensland Aphasia Research Centre. Aphasia is an acquired communication disability caused by brain damage, usually stroke. It impacts the ability to speak, read, write, and understand others which has a devastating impact on people’s lives. Sam researches the effectiveness of aphasia treatments and the quality of aphasia services.

Aphasia treatment is effective but factors such as race and ethnicity, education, and socioeconomic background affect recovery. Sam’s Fulbright research seeks to understand the social determinants of aphasia recovery.

Dr Niro Kandasamy Postdoctoral Scholars

“My Fulbright research aims to identify and assess how the US and Australia have responded to conflicts in the Indian Ocean region during the twentieth century. The findings from the project will help me to advance contemporary historical understandings of the region and offer important insights to Australian policymakers. “

Niro is Lecturer in History in the School of Humanities at the University of Sydney. She teaches histories of conflict, refugee resettlement, and international relations. Before joining the University of Sydney in 2022, she was teaching in Melbourne and held senior research positions in non-government organisations. She has undertaken visiting fellowships at the University of Oxford and York University.

Niro’s Fulbright Scholarship will enable her to expand her research interests in understanding how states and societies respond to conflicts. The project will examine US and Australian responses to conflicts erupting in the Indian Ocean region during the twentieth century.

Dr Thomas K. Kelemen, Ph.D. Postdoctoral Scholars

“My Fulbright project focuses on understanding leader imposter syndrome and its implications for underrepresented leaders. My experience in studying leadership from a scientific perspective and translating these findings to business leaders via high-impact outlets (e.g., Harvard Business Review) will allow me to impact leaders in Australia and globally.”

Thomas received his doctorate from the University of Oklahoma and is currently an assistant professor of management at Kansas State University. His research focuses on leadership, employee extra-role behaviors, and work-family dynamics.

In collaboration with colleagues at Deakin University and the University of Melbourne, Thomas’ Fulbright research project focuses on understanding leader imposter syndrome and its implications for underrepresented leaders.

Dr Frederick Marlton Postdoctoral Scholars

“I will be collaborating with the Karunadasa group at Standford University, researching halide perovskites for photovoltaic applications. I plan to leverage my expertise to determine the atomic scale features that influence physical properties of unique systems, which will provide insights for the development of high-performance materials.”

Fred is a Chancellor’s Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Technology Sydney. He conducts X-ray and neutron scattering at large-scale facilities to understand how the atomic structure of functional materials relates to their physical properties. His current focus is on perovskite materials for solid-state cooling, but has also researched materials for ionic conduction, photocatalysis and nuclear waste storage.

Fred will be collaborating with the Karunadasa group at Standford University, where he will be researching halide perovskites for photovoltaic applications. He will be determining the atomic scale features that influence the physical properties, which will provide insights for future developments.

Dr Gabi Mocatta Postdoctoral Scholars

“Climate change is the leading global health threat of the 21st Century, but health systems almost everywhere are unprepared. My Fulbright scholarship will create new insights into how we best translate complex climate science information for health systems and the communities they serve. Adapting healthcare for climate impacts is crucial for healthy futures.”

Gabi is an interdisciplinary academic who researches communicational responses to climate change. Her multifocal work takes place at the site where climate change science, public understanding, collective discourse on climate change and environmental policy intersect. She has recently focused on climate science translation for health system preparedness and adaptation in response to climate change.

As a Fulbright Scholar, Gabi will be visiting the Center for Climate Change Communication at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. She will work with Prof. Ed Maibach and the Virginia Climate Center on a case study to better understand health systems’ and communities’ climate-health information needs.

Dr Amanda Moon Postdoctoral Scholars

“Former foster youth achieve graduation from institutions of higher education at a significantly reduced rate when compared to the general population. The purpose of my Fulbright research is to recruit diverse former foster youth college graduates to explore the impact of their K-12 experiences on their academic and life trajectories.”

Amanda is an educator with experience teaching at the elementary, secondary, and higher education levels. She is also a researcher, program evaluator, and community advocate. She graduated with her PhD in Teaching and Learning in 2023 and holds multiple other degrees in English (BA), secondary education (MAT), and educational research (Med). Her dissertation topic and research interest are in the impact of K-12 experiences on adult outcomes for foster youth.

Amanda’s Fulbright purpose includes researching the K-12 experiences of former foster youth in Australia, with a focus on recruiting indigenous participants, to explore and understand their beliefs and perceptions.

Dr Connor O'Meara Postdoctoral Scholars

“My Fulbright Future research aims to develop revolutionary new techniques for early identification of head and neck cancer metastasis and immunotherapies to reduce metastatic potential.”

Connor is an Otorhinolaryngology, Head & Neck (ORL-HNS) Surgeon specialising in Head & Neck Oncology (HNO) and a Research Fellow at the John Curtin School of Medical Research, The Australian National University. His research focus explores our understanding of the immune system, specifically neutrophils and their neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) state, and development of immunotherapies.

Within the University of Virginia Head and Neck Oncology & Microvascular Reconstruction Department, led by Associate Professor Shonka, Connor will use his Fulbright Futures Scholarship to investigate the potential for NETs to identify HNC metastasis before our most sensitive imaging techniques; subsequently testing a novel therapeutic agent to determine whether it mitigates their role in metastasis. Hopefully identifying a more sensitive measure for HNC metastasis and a novel therapy to reduce cancer metastasis.

Dr Madison Paton Postdoctoral Scholars

“My Fulbright aims to build a future where children with cerebral palsy can access safe and effective cell therapies. Together with Duke University, we have designed a program that supports the approval of umbilical cord blood treatment for cerebral palsy via rigorous research, training, advocacy and implementation.”

Madison is a Senior Research Fellow specialising in cell therapies at the Cerebral Palsy Alliance Research Institute. Her research is dedicated to those living with disability and aims to progress clinical trials and access to safe and effective treatments.

As a Fulbright Scholar, Madison will collaborate with experts at Duke University to explore how umbilical cord blood is being investigated as a treatment for cerebral palsy. Cerebral palsy remains the most common physical disability in childhood, with limited treatment options. Madison’s vision is to help deliver the world’s first approved cell therapy through a deep and enduring US-Australian partnership.

Dr David Preece Postdoctoral Scholars

“Emotions are central to daily life and problems in emotion underly many mental health issues. My Fulbright research aims to uncover new insights into how people identify and control their emotions, and what causes issues in these areas. These insights will ultimately help us develop better treatments for emotional disorders.”

David is a Clinical Psychologist and the Director of the Perth Emotion and Psychopathology Lab at Curtin University. His research focuses on the understanding, assessment, and treatment of emotional problems like depression, anxiety, and loneliness. Different mental health issues often occur together, so David is particularly interested in identifying common factors that underlie a range of mental health symptoms.

David’s Fulbright project at Stanford University aims to uncover new insights into how people understand and control their emotions, and what causes issues in these areas. These insights will ultimately help us develop more advanced treatments for
emotional disorders.

Dr Babar Shabbir Postdoctoral Scholars

“To address a critical challenge, my Fulbright project focuses on innovating highly sensitive dual-energy X-ray detectors. This project aims to contribute to improved imaging while also expected to provide an adequate level of protection to individuals during radiology applications and non-human species or wildlife by reducing X-ray exposures to the environment in non-destructive applications.”

Babar is a physicist and material scientist whose current research interests include the fabrication of next-generation X-ray detectors for applications such as radiology and non-destructive testing. He has experience in fabricating X-ray detecting devices, designing detectors, and testing detectors.

As a Fulbright Scholar, Babar is headed to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. There, he will work with Professor Ling Jian Meng to develop highly sensitive dual-energy X-ray detectors. This is important for medical scans and tests that require accurate and detailed results.

Dr Maggs X Postdoctoral Scholars

“My Fulbright research aims to utilize the rare comparative framework of two reproductively bimodal species that are endemic to Australia to identify genomic features that influence the evolution of egg-laying and live-birth.”

Maggs (they/them) is a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Missouri. They received their PhD in Comparative Biology from the Richard Gilder Graduate School at the American Museum of Natural History. Their research focuses on using phylogenetics, single cell technologies, and comparative genomics to better understand how complex traits evolve at the molecular level. Their research explores the evolution of reproductive modes in snakes and lizards, and the evolution of troglomorphic traits (cave-associated phenotypes) in teleosts. They are inspired by the value non-model organisms have for informing our understanding of evolution, human health, and the health of the planet.

Maggs’ Fulbright research aims to utilise the rare comparative framework of two reproductively bimodal species that are endemic to Australia to identify genomic features that influence the evolution of egg-laying and live-birth.

Saleem Ameen Postgraduate Students

“My Fulbright research at MIT aims to create cutting-edge AI solutions that improve colorectal cancer outcomes in marginalised communities. The goal is to accelerate the development of AI screening technologies by tackling AI bias in healthcare to equitably improve the early detection and treatment of colon cancer in vulnerable populations.”

Saleem is completing a PhD (Medicine) at the University of Tasmania and a Master of Biomedical Informatics at the Harvard Medical School, focusing on patient-centred preventative health technologies that improve health outcomes in disadvantaged communities. Specifically, Saleem is interested in exploring how artificial intelligence could be utilised to prevent the emergence of colorectal cancer, after a New Colombo Plan Scholarship experience at the Yonsei Severance Hospital in South Korea exposed him to the challenges of cancer therapy.

As a Fulbright Future Scholar, Saleem will undertake research at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology advancing AI methods for use in colorectal cancer screening.

Belinda Gia Linh An Postgraduate Students

Belinda is a doctor at the Royal Hospital for Women with a passion for health literacy education, particularly relating to sexual health, pelvic inflammatory disease and its long-term impacts on fertility and reproductive health. In addition to her clinical work in obstetrics and gynaecology, Belinda volunteers as the lead medical advisor for the not-for-profit consent and sexual education organisation Consent Labs. She is a fertility researcher with first-authored publications in international journals such as Human Reproduction, and also teaches as a Conjoint Associate Lecturer in Women’s Health at the University of New South Wales.

As a Fulbright Scholar, Belinda plans to complete a Master of Science in Media, Medicine, and Health, with the aim to develop a multimedia platform that can connect, engage and empower Australian youth with evidence-based health information to become lifelong advocates for their wellbeing.

Dana Badcock Postgraduate Students

“My research explores the timeless vocal techniques of the Great American Songbook, transcending generations and genres. By delving into its influence, I aim to enhance my own singing abilities while contributing to the pursuit of vocal excellence. A fusion of artistry and academia, my journey bridges my passion for music history and my background in contemporary voice performance.”

Dana, an RnB singer from Devonport, Tasmania, who graduated from the Tasmanian Conservatorium of Music on the Honour Roll in 2021. She has performed around the world in London, Vienna, and Los Angeles, with notable Australian appearances at Parliament House, Dark Mofo, Festival of Voices and more. Dana is also an experienced producer, and an accomplished music tutor with a decade of experience. Currently serving as Head of Voice at Hobart College, she mentors pre-tertiary voice students and passionately guides them in their musical pursuits and
university goals.

Dana’s journey bridges performance, education, and research, including her Fulbright project focused on unraveling timeless vocal techniques within the Great American Songbook.

Joshua Adam Belperio Postgraduate Students

“My aim is to study the art and craft of storytelling through song in the American book musical tradition. I will build collaborative relationships with peers and workshop material under the guidance of masters of the form.”

Josh is a composer, musical theatre writer and cabaret artist. A passionate voice within the queer community, they are best known for their viral protest songs for queer rights. Additionally, Josh has created four cabaret shows, which have won awards and garnered five-star reviews. Josh is a graduate of the Victorian College of the Arts (Master of Theatre Writing), and the Elder Conservatorium of Music (Bachelor of Music Composition).

Josh’s Fulbright Scholarship will see them study a masters of musical theatre writing in New York City, which will culminate in the creation of an original musical, written in collaboration with U.S. peers, to be presented to a New York industry audience.

Taylor Broadbent Postgraduate Students

Taylor is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation and a graduate of the University of Oklahoma with a Bachelor of Arts in Letters. She is pursuing her Master’s degree in Public Policy and Management at the University of Melbourne to conduct comparative analysis research on writing and utilising indigenous knowledge in public policy. Previously, Taylor has worked for the Director of the Bureau of Indian Affairs at the US Department of Interior and in US Congress for Senator Markwayne Mullin. She also served on the author team for the National Climate Assessment.

Taylor intends to use her knowledge gained during her Master’s program to compare US and Australian policies on indigenous knowledge and develop creative policy solutions that utilise indigenous knowledge in combatting the climate crisis.

Chiara Cementon Postgraduate Students

“My MS in mechanical engineering will equip me with the skills required to engineer new technologies derived from mechanical, electronic and computer engineering principles that reduce our impact on the environment.”

Chiara is a research and development professional in the product development team at Synergetics Consulting Engineers working on industrial air quality solutions. She holds a Bachelor of Philosophy in Science from the Australian National University and completed her Honours in novel battery chemistries.

As a Fulbright scholar, Chiara will undertake a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering to explore and design new technologies for a cleaner, more sustainable future. She aspires to be part of the engineering teams that will transform the processes that negatively impact our environment.

Keshavi Jagdish Charde Postgraduate Students

“My Fulbright research aims to scale-up the current quantum processing capability with the required error-correction, to eventually develop a quantum computer. It nurtures collaboration between two countries at the forefront of quantum computing to explore each other’s unique pathways and progress to achieve this feat and advance quicker as one.”

Keshavi is a recent dual-degree graduate in advanced physics (honours) and aerospace engineering (honours). Her journey began in her first physics class when she savoured the depths of curiosity and developed a very human nature to question and reason the mechanics of the world. This innate drive pulled her closer to quantum mechanics, which although is present in every aspect of our world, is the least understood. She is similarly amazed by the big questions surrounding us, in wondrous outer-space.

With her Fulbright research, Keshavi aims to explore this field of quantum mechanics and apply it to quantum computing to produce a tangible machine for the benefit of many engineering industries. She is driven to bring this innovation to the space industry and nurture exploration beyond the horizons.

Dr Victoria Rose Valentina Cox Postgraduate Students

“My Fulbright research will explore public health approaches to reduce the endemic burden of scabies and common skin disease in the Northern Territory.”

Victoria is a PhD research student at the Menzies School of Health Research and a medical doctor at Royal Darwin Hospital. She is a Principal Investigator working on a collaborative project to estimate the prevalence and impact of scabies and mass-drug administration treatment programs in remote Aboriginal communities in the Northern Territory. She has championed skin health reform in northern Australia; supporting the development and implementation of community skin health programs, revising national clinical guidelines and co-authoring a successful PBAC submission to change the listing of ivermectin on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for the management of scabies in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations
in Australia.

As the 2024 Fulbright Northern Territory Scholar, Victoria will work with Professor Esther Freeman at Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School in Boston; developing a roadmap to improve the global provision of skin health services as part of the global access to dermatology project.

Emily Eglitis Postgraduate Students

“During summer holidays, health and achievement gaps between the rich and poor widen. Summer camps offer practical solutions to improve the lives and futures of disadvantaged youth. My Fulbright research evaluates the feasibility and appeal of summer camps for disadvantaged groups, seeking effective models for Australian adaptation.”

Emily graduated from the University of South Australia in 2006 with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy (Honors). A volunteering experience in Nepal ignited her passion for health equity. Now a PhD candidate at UniSA’s Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition, and Activity, Emily studies the health costs of summer holidays, particularly for disadvantaged children.

With a Fulbright Scholarship, Emily will collaborate with Associate Professor Glenn Weaver and the team at the Arnold School of Public Health (University of South Carolina), experts in children’s wellbeing during summer. Exploring U.S. summer camp models, Emily aims to adapt these as culturally-tailored health interventions in Australia to bridge health inequality.

Kieran Gibson Postgraduate Students

“My Fulbright research aims to better understand why people help each other. In many cases, having some ‘extra motivation’ to be prosocial can go a long way, and my research equips policy makers with a toolkit of incentives that amplify our existing tendencies to be helpful, rather than undermine them.”

Kieran is a behavioural economist researching the underlying reasons why people engage in helpful behaviour. His PhD focuses on altruism, reciprocity, and incentives, showing how the design of an incentive program affects people’s natural propensity to help each other. Kieran completed a Bachelor of Economics (Honours) and a Bachelor of Mathematics at the University of Queensland, where he was awarded a University Medal and the Microeconomics Honours Prize.

As a Fulbright Scholar, Kieran will work with Associate Professor Marta Serra-Garcia as a visiting researcher at the University of California, San Diego. Together, they intend to integrate the insights from his PhD research with her specialized knowledge in incentives and charitable contributions.

Virginia A. Gilliland Postgraduate Students

Virginia is a Davidson College alum, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology. As a Hollings Scholar with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, she researched artificial reefs, which contributed to her senior thesis and informed state management decisions. She is passionate about outreach and engaging members in issues relevant to their community.

During her Fulbright Scholarship, Virginia is pursuing a Master of Research with the Marine Ecology Group at Macquarie University in Sydney. She will use cutting edge technologies, including aerial drones and remote operated vehicles to understand the effectiveness of zoning on the Great Barrier Reef and better inform marine management and conservation initiatives.

Madeleine Gordon Postgraduate Students

“My Fulbright study will equip me with the skills I need to contribute to the uplift in Australia’s cybersecurity, in turn mitigating the devasting impacts cyberattacks are having on the nation’s security, economy and wellbeing.”

Madeleine is an analyst responsible for enabling guidance to the Australian government on the country’s security environment. She holds a Bachelor of International Security Studies and a Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics from ANU. Madeleine is passionate about fortifying the nation’s information and communication networks. Addressing vulnerabilities in Australian networks is crucial to mitigating the severe ramifications cyberattacks are having on the nation’s economy, security, and well-being.

To further her work in this area, Madeleine will use her Fulbright Scholarship to pursue a Master’s degree in Computer Science, specialising in computer and network security.

Dr Christina Guo Postgraduate Students

“My Master of Public Health will help me develop expertise in social epidemiology, social behavioural research, and public health leadership. With these skills, I hope to combine clinical practice with public health policy and advocacy work to tackle the disproportionate health and economic impacts of drug-resistant infections in our most disadvantaged communities.”

Christina is a medical doctor with a passion for improving health equity in Australia through tackling antimicrobial resistance. She holds a Bachelor of Biomedicine with First Class Honours and a Doctor of Medicine from the University of Melbourne, where she studied as a Melbourne Chancellor’s Scholar. Christina has held several leadership positions in state and national peak advocacy bodies and recently represented the World Medical Association as a delegate to the World Health Assembly to advocate for targeted action on the social determinants of health.

As a Fulbright Scholar, Christina will undertake a Master of Public Health to develop expertise in social epidemiology, social behavioural research, and public health leadership. She hopes to combine clinical practice with public health policy and advocacy work to tackle the disproportionate health and economic impacts of drug-resistant infections in Australia’s most disadvantaged communities.

Eliza Joy Hallinan Postgraduate Students

“My Fulbright research will engage various cultural communities in Sydney in order to develop a podcast series about their first-hand experiences with immigration, the ways migration has shaped their perspectives and how multiculturalism manifests in storytelling.”

Eliza is an empathy-led dramaturg, writer, and director. Through plays, screenplays, and audio drama, their writing champions queer joy, under-scrutinised history, and human connection. As a recent graduate from Carnegie Mellon University’s drama program, they seek to blend their academic and artistic educations.

Fulbright and Western Sydney University have given Eliza the opportunity to delve into a new medium— documentary podcasting. They look forward to exploring and sharing dialogues about the state of multiculturalism and immigration in Australia.

Danielle Kampers Postgraduate Students

“My research focuses on the effects of harmful algae blooms and associated toxins on aquatic habitats.”

Danielle is a Wardandi-Noongar woman with Irish heritage and blood ties to the South-West Boojarah region of Western Australia (Margaret River). This is her father’s Country. She studied marine biology and aquaculture science at James Cook University and is currently a graduate scientist at the Australian Institute of Marine Science in Perth.

As a Fulbright scholar, Danielle will study the occurrences of harmful algae blooms; a major challenge faced by the sustainable seafood industry, which prioritises best practises for the environment and future food security for the growing population. She hopes her research will contribute to understanding the effects of blooms and associated toxins on aquatic habitats. Through her Fulbright experience, Danielle hopes to promote the role of Indigenous knowledge in fisheries science and natural resource management.

Dr Sireesha Koneru Postgraduate Students

“My Fulbright research investigates functional outcomes in “watch and wait” rectal cancer management. This research will enable my completion of an inaugural 360-degree review of functional outcomes following all available rectal cancer treatments.”

Sireesha is a colorectal research fellow at the University of Sydney and Concord Repatriation General Hospital. She is completing her PhD with research centred on functional outcomes and quality of life after operative and non-operative management of rectal cancer, on which she has published and presented.

With the support of the Fulbright Future Scholarship, Sireesha will continue her research work at the Mayo Clinic, Rochester, focussing on functional outcomes after “watch and wait” management for rectal cancer.

Justine Landis-Hanley Postgraduate Students

“My goal is to help pioneer new ways that journalists can tell data-driven political investigations through emerging mediums to expose political corruption and hold governments to account.”

Justine is a New York Times-published journalist and award-winning podcaster, currently reporting on federal politics from the Australian press gallery for The Canberra Times. Her work has appeared in the Guardian, Sydney Morning Herald, The Saturday Paper, and Crikey. In 2022 she co-hosted Left Right Out, a Spotify exclusive podcast that answered young peoples’ questions about Australian politics. It was the #1 news show on the platform in Australia throughout the federal election. Justine graduated from the University of Sydney in 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts (Media and Communications) majoring in Philosophy.

With her Fulbright Scholarship, Justine will undertake a Master of Science (Journalism) specialising in investigative data journalism. Her goal is to help pioneer new ways that journalists can tell data-driven political investigations through emerging mediums to expose political corruption and hold governments to account.

Grace Elizabeth Manahan Postgraduate Students

Grace holds a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and Government and International Relations (maj. Public Policy). She is a commercial technology and data lawyer at Allens, and an Australian Army Reservist. Previously, she worked and studied in Singapore as a New Colombo Plan Scholar. Grace intends to combine her experiences in national security and technology and data law, by completing advanced legal courses and a dissertation in cybersecurity, privacy and surveillance law, and critical infrastructure. This will equip Grace with the knowledge and abilities required of lawyers working with our neighbours and security partners in
the Pacific.

As a Fulbright Scholar, Grace will complete a Master of Laws in National Security Law, which will combine theoretical coursework, practical skills development, and research. Grace will focus on small state diplomacy and the development of multilateral legal instruments between the US, Australia and Pacific Island nations, that address novel regional security threats.

Laura A. Milton Postgraduate Students

“My Fulbright project aims to increase the efficacy of the drug testing pipeline by generating more predictive and reproducible drug screening models. We will fabricate microfluidic cell culture devices that accurately mimic the human body to forecast patient responses, expediting drug discovery and decreasing off-target effects for clinical trial participants.”

Laura is a biomedical engineering PhD candidate at the Queensland University of Technology who generates micro-scale drug testing platforms. She graduated from the University of Queensland as Valedictorian of the School of Biomedical Sciences, then moved to biomedical engineering to address drug testing pipeline inefficacies. Laura now combines microfluidic cell culture devices with bespoke biomaterials and cell constructs, using them to develop predictive and reproducible drug screening models which forecast patient responses.

As a Fulbright Scholar, Laura will work with leading microfluidics researchers at the University of Washington to develop microfluidic drug screening platforms for a variety of disorders.

Abigail Grace Monahan Postgraduate Students

“My Fulbright research aims to develop a novel wastewater treatment method combining biological and advanced oxidation methods to remove and degrade antibiotics more effectively. This research is a crucial component of mitigating antibiotic resistance and preventing the contamination of freshwater sources.”

Abigail grew up in Vermont and earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Chemistry with a minor in Environmental Science and Studies from Skidmore College.

As a Fulbright Scholar, Abigail is working with Professor Faisal Hai at the University of Wollongong to develop a novel wastewater treatment method combining biological and advanced oxidation methods to remove and degrade antibiotics more effectively. This research is a crucial component of mitigating antibiotic resistance and preventing the contamination of freshwater sources. Upon completion of her Fulbright research, Abigail will pursue a Ph.D. in Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Michigan.

Kellie Nicolle Navarro Postgraduate Students

“My research at the Australian Institute of Marine Science (AIMS) will assess coral bleaching and identify heat-tolerant coral populations under climate change. My work will help determine the suitability of bleaching resilient coral for a pilot deployment test of restoration methods in 2025 at AIMS in the Great Barrier Reef.”

Kellie is a biologist interested in the impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems. She is a Bowdoin College alum with a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in biology and education. Navarro became passionate about marine science through her work with the National Science Foundation and her thesis on the effects of temperature on corals.

Through her Fulbright Scholarship, Kellie will be working at the Australian Institute of Marine Science on the genetics behind coral reef adaptation to climate change. In the future, Navarro aspires to inform environmental policy through her research and increase access to the field.

Sophia Grace Ridolfo Postgraduate Students

Sophia recently completed a Bachelor of Advanced Science with Honours in Astronomy and Astrophysics at The Australian National University in 2023. She has studied chemical enrichment in galaxies, interstellar medium physics, and galactic outflows and jets, through multiple research scholarships and research assistant positions. Sophia is passionate about inspiring the next generation of scientists through her volunteering, where she has led ANU Astronomy Society as President in 2021 and 2022, helped run the Young Stars science outreach program in Canberra and has collaborated on gender diversity modelling research to understand the underrepresentation of women in STEM.

As a Fulbright scholar, Sophia will pursue a PhD in the United States using state-of-the-art theoretical models and observations to understand the origin and build-up of chemical elements in the birthplaces of stars, and their connection to the chemical evolution of galaxies over cosmic time.

Harry Robertson Postgraduate Students

“My Fulbright study is focused on discovering contemporary biomarkers for organ transplant health through advanced imaging. Traditional biomarkers rely on costly sequencing, often inaccessible to many. By pioneering new machine learning methods to analyse this imaging data, we aim to offer a universally available, non-invasive diagnostic tool for transplant recipients.”

As an aspiring bioinformatician, Harry envisions a future where healthcare decisions are guided by the wealth of data we gather on patients. His pursuit as a PhD student in Australia is to make this vision a reality by pioneering accessible biomarkers for organ transplant health. Tapping into our nation’s connected healthcare system, Harry is developing machine learning algorithms that can interpret complex imaging data, offering non-invasive diagnostic tools for widespread use.

Harry’s ambition as a Fulbright Scholar at Harvard University is to pave the way for Australia to be a global leader in data-driven healthcare, enhancing patient outcomes nationally and across the globe.

John Robertson Schaefer Postgraduate Students

Hailing from Michigan, John received his Bachelor of Arts from Harvard University in History and Science, focusing on the history of botany. His current research at the University of Cambridge examines the use of machine learning models in community-based citizen science and humanities projects.

As a Fulbright Scholar, John will work with Professor Tonia Gray to develop a series of interactive lesson plans and online resources exploring Australian floral biodiversity. He hopes this work will support both students and teachers in rural areas through an integrative environmental-evolutionary approach to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) topics, emphasising the importance of outdoor experiential education.

Dr Brittany Suann Postgraduate Students

Dr Britt Suann is a Western Australian junior doctor, currently working at Royal Perth Hospital in Western Australia (WA). She graduated with a Doctor of Medicine with Distinction from the University of Western Australia in 2022 and with a Bachelor of Science with a Chancellor’s Scholarship from the University of Melbourne in 2018 after having achieved a 99.95 ATAR in 2015. She is a passionate leader, having been awarded a LEAP Foundation leadership scholarship, a New Colombo Plan Scholarship for Public Health in Indonesia, and the Joel Carson Memorial Award for community service to WA medical students. She believes strongly in the need to listen to local communities for effective long-term leadership and has developed strong interests in Public Health and Health Policy, Aboriginal Health and Doctors’ Health.

Britt intends to use her Fulbright Scholarship to study a Master of Public Health to equip her with the skills needed to combine her clinical work with non-clinical Public Health leadership. She intends to dedicate her career to making Australian Health systems more culturally safe for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients, and to advocating for the health and safety of doctors working for Australian Health systems.

Shaban Barney Sulejman Postgraduate Students

“My aim is to deliver an advance towards portable imaging technology for rural communities where existing technologies are limited.”

Born and raised in the town of Shepparton, Shaban is a PhD candidate in the School of Physics at the University of Melbourne and the ARC Centre of Excellence for Transformative Meta-Optical Systems. Under the primary supervision of Prof. Ann Roberts, Shaban works towards designing optical nanotechnology to image transparent samples, such as diseases and cancer cells.

The aim of Shaban’s Fulbright project is to engineer a portable device for rapid biological assessment applications, such as determining the size of cells. After facing difficult personal circumstances, Shaban aspires to continue sharing his story to inspire others regardless of their circumstances.

Ned Talbot Postgraduate Students

Ned is a diplomat with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, currently posted to Houston, Texas as Deputy Consul General. He previously worked at Australia’s Embassy in Beijing as First Secretary (Trade), as well as the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, and Australia’s Trade and Investment Commission. Ned graduated with a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) from the University of Sydney.

Ned will use his Fulbright scholarship to pursue a Master of Public Policy specialising in international trade. His study will focus on the nexus between trade and foreign policy, and how tools of international trade can be used to mitigate practices of economic coercion between countries.

Caitlin Rose Tedesco Postgraduate Students

“My Fulbright research aims to identify mechanisms underlying the efficacy of bariatric surgery, which is currently the most effective long-term treatment for obesity. The ultimate goal of this research is to help inform clinical guidelines and contribute to developing effective non-surgical interventions for obesity treatment.”

Caitlin is a PhD candidate at the University of New South Wales. Her research investigates mechanisms underlying the efficacy of bariatric surgery, which is currently the most effective long-term treatment for obesity.

As a Fulbright Future Scholar, Caitlin will work with Dr. Yeka Aponte and her team at the National Institute on Drug Abuse Intramural Research Program. This visit will help Caitlin gain expertise in using cutting-edge neuroscience techniques, facilitating innovative research into potential neurobiological mechanisms underlying the efficacy of bariatric surgery. Ultimately, she hopes that her research will be used to inform clinical guidelines and contribute to developing effective non-surgical interventions for obesity treatment.

Dr James Oliver Townsend Postgraduate Students

“My Fulbright research in translational medicine will help me reduce barriers between science and clinical interventions that improve our response to viral pathogens. I hope to develop both academic and industry partnerships in the US to promote international health security and decrease the threat of another pandemic.”

James is a junior doctor from Sydney interested in pandemic prevention and vaccine development. Although an aspiring clinician scientist and infectious diseases consultant, he also has a passion for education, teaching First Nations Australian trainee doctors while creating didactic animated YouTube videos for medical students. Outside of work, James is an avid Surf Life Saver, volunteering as a Patrol Captain at North Steyne Beach in Manly.

James’ Fulbright research in translational medicine will help reduce barriers between science and clinical interventions that improve our response to
viral pathogens.

Bill Haide Zhu Postgraduate Students

“Alzheimer’s disease is the single most prevalent neurodegenerative disease in the world today, and it still lacks an effective clinical intervention. My Fulbright research aims to unearth the basic underlying mechanisms behind cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s disease patients, establishing the targets for future molecular therapies.”

Bill is a neuroscientist from Sydney focusing on the root causes of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia symptoms. He aims to translate findings in molecular neurophysiology into effective interventions for neurodegeneration and advocates for applying basic sciences to clarify complex problems in neurological disorders.

Following his undergraduate study at the University of New South Wales, Bill will complete a five-year PhD tenure in the US as a Fulbright Scholar, where he will investigate critical mechanisms implicated in cognitive decline in Alzheimer’s disease. By understanding their roles in disease progression, Bill hopes to identify novel intervention targets for Alzheimer’s disease.