From the Lab to Your Life: New Medical Research in Tasmania

Join us to hear from three Menzies PhD students who are working to improve health outcomes for Tasmanians.

Mike Zhao

When someone is diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND), they typically have only around two to four years to live. There is currently no cure, and we still have much to learn about how the disease develops and progresses. Mike is investigating tiny “gates” on the surface of nerve cells, called potassium channels, which help control how these motor neurons send electrical signals to tell muscles how to move. His research explores how changes in these channels contribute to the rapid progression of MND, and whether they could reveal new ways to slow the disease and develop better treatments.

Sofoora Kawsar Usman

In Tasmania, only about 1 in 6 people with lung cancer are still alive five years after they find out. Finding it early is what helps people most. But many Tasmanians, especially in the country, face long waits, long trips and a confusing system. Sofoora is a health economist. She talked to patients, carers, GPs and health workers, and looked at hospital records. Her research looks at how late diagnosis affects survival, quality of life and costs, and how better access could help Tasmanians get treated sooner and live longer, better lives.

Bedru Abafita

Living with knee osteoarthritis can mean daily pain, stiff joints, and an emotional toll. Doctors know that exercise can help, but which type works best? Bedru has been investigating whether yoga can match an established strengthening exercise program for easing pain, while also offering added benefits for stiffness, mood, and quality of life. He's now in the final stages of his PhD, come along to find out what he discovered.

Each talk will go for about 20 minutes. Those attending in person are invited to stay afterwards for a complementary cuppa.

Those who have registered to attend online will be emailed a Zoom link to the live stream a few days before the event.