I completed my Doctor of Philosophy at Federation University, where my research focused on the study of essential hypertension caused by epigenetic modifications of the genome, particularly through DNA methylation. My doctoral work involved the use of next-generation sequencing and advanced bioinformatics techniques to identify novel targets for drug discovery and biomarkers for predicting disease risk. This research provided significant insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying hypertension and opened new avenues for therapeutic intervention.
After completing my PhD, I joined James Cook University as a post-doctoral research fellow. During this period, I employed a sophisticated systems biology approach to explore predictive vaccinology in individuals infected with Plasmodium falciparum. My work aimed to understand the host-pathogen interactions at a molecular level, contributing to the development of more effective vaccines and therapeutic strategies against malaria.
Motivated by a strong interest in the clinical applications of scientific research and therapeutic development, I transitioned into a career in clinical research. I initially worked as a clinical trial coordinator, managing various aspects of clinical studies to ensure their success and integrity. Subsequently, I advanced to the role of senior medical science liaison, where I provided scientific and medical expertise to support clinical development and engage with healthcare professionals.
Teaching has always been an integral part of my professional and personal interest. Since 2014, I have been involved with tertiary teaching at various institutes - including Federation University, James Cook University (JCU), and Australian Catholic University (ACU). I am currently an academic at Central Queensland University (CQU), where I am committed to creating an inclusive and dynamic learning environment. I am passionate about empowering students and colleagues alike to pursue knowledge and achieve their full potential. Through my teaching and mentorship, I strive to inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals.
In addition to my academic role at CQU, I serve on the Diabetes Higher Education Academic Board at Mayfield Education. In this capacity, I contribute to the development and evaluation of educational programs aimed at advancing knowledge and practice in diabetes management and care. This role allows me to leverage my expertise to help shape the future of diabetes education and support the training of healthcare professionals who are equipped to tackle the complexities of this prevalent disease.
Federation University
Central Queensland University
Federation University, Central Queensland University, Australian Catholic University, James Cook University
· Winner: Medical Affairs Professionals Association (MAPA) – medical science liaison of the year (2023)
· Global top 4 finalist – medical science liaison of the year (2023) – MSL Academy
· Top 4 nominees of field-based medical employee of the year (2022 & 2023) – Novartis
· Nursing with Distinction: CQU (2021)
· Student’s choice nomination (teaching/ lecturing awards) (2020 - 2023)
· Vice Chancellors teach nomination (2016 & 2021)
· ISH people’s choice award – oral presentation (1st place): ISH conference, Scotland (2019)
· ISH new investigator poster award (1st place): ISH conference, Singapore (2017)
· Honorable mention for conference presentation: Federation University (2015, 2016 & 2017)
· Albert Coates Memorial Scholarship: Received for demonstrating significant academic ability whilst overcoming challenging circumstances
· Academic Excellence Award: Bachelor of Biomedical Science
· Dean’s List Award: Biomedical Science (GPA > 6.8)
· Golden Key International Honours Society Award: Received for academic ability within the top 15% within the Bachelor of Biomedical Science (University of Ballarat)
· President and Treasurer: University of Ballarat Biomedical Science Association
· International Scholar Laureate Student Delegation on Medicine: Nominated representative
· Numerous letters of commendation for academic achievement: Faculty of Science & Technology
· Secondary Education Accelerated Learning (SEAL) program
2024-current: Course coordinator/ Academic Lecturer - CQUniversity
2020-2024: Bachelor of Nursing/ Bachelor of Paramedicine – Australian Catholic University
2020-current: Post-graduate certificate in Diabetes Education – Mayfield Education
2018-2019: Bachelor of Nursing – James Cook University Australia
2014-2018: Bachelor Biomedical Science, Bachelor Veterinary and Wildlife Science - Federation University
Nursing
Role: Senior Nurse, Clinical Trials
Experience: Provided high-quality care to critically ill patients, including managing end-of-life care, administering medications, and coordinating multidisciplinary care. Led patient rounds, developed care plans, and trained junior nursing staff on best practices in patient safety and care.
Key Skills: Clinical care, patient assessment, leadership, team coordination, mentoring.
Lecturing
Role: Lecturer, Nursing and Midwifery| Biomedical Science| Science
Experience: Delivered undergraduate and postgraduate lectures on clinical practice, patient care ethics, healthcare policies, pathophysiology, pharmacology, anatomy, statistics, nutrition. Developed and assessed course materials, supervised student research projects, and provided academic and career support to students. Achieved high student satisfaction rates through interactive and innovative teaching methods.
Key Skills: Curriculum design, public speaking, student mentoring, research supervision.
Academic Board
Role: Member, Academic Board
Experience: Contributed to the governance of academic standards and strategic decision-making within the institution. Participated in the evaluation of academic programmes, ensuring alignment with quality assurance frameworks and accreditation requirements. Reviewed and approved curriculum changes, academic policies, and assessment methodologies.
Key Skills: Academic governance, quality assurance, policy development, strategic planning.
Research
Role: Research Fellow, Bioinformatics| transcriptomics
Experience: Conducted quantitative research, published findings in peer-reviewed journals, and presented at international conferences. Collaborated with industry partners to translate research into clinical practice.
Key Skills: Research design, data analysis, academic writing, grant acquisition, stakeholder collaboration.
Project Management
Role: Project Manager| Medical Scientific Liaison
Experience: Managed a national healthcare improvement project focused on enhancing patient care in rural areas. Coordinated a team of healthcare professionals, marketers, and policymakers to implement digital health algorithms. Delivered the project within budget and on time, improving identification of patients "lost in the system".
Key Skills: Leadership, budget management, stakeholder engagement, healthcare systems, time management.
Women in STEM, HCPRCA, AHPRA
Bioinformatics and computational biology - Biological network analysis
Bioinformatics and computational biology - Genomics and transcriptomics
Genetics - Epigenetics (incl. Genome Methylation and Epigenomics)
Other health sciences - Other health sciences not elsewhere classified
Public health - Health equity