Faculty of Health 3

Outstanding Doctoral Thesis Award

MALONE, Emma Isabelle

Thesis Title

'I Feel Your Pain': Exploring the Embodied Impacts of Complex Trauma Therapy on the Life of the Therapist

Supervisors

• Adjunct Professor Jane Shakespeare-Finch (Principal Supervisor)
• Associate Professor Brooke Andrew (Associate Supervisor)
• Dr Ronald Frey (External Supervisor)

Citation

Complex trauma occurs from repeated trauma experiences that are severe and prolonged, including child abuse, and domestic and family violence. Given the high prevalence of complex trauma in Australia, there is a need to understand the impacts on therapists working with complex trauma exposed clients. This research identified that there are unique costs to the health of therapists working with complex trauma, including high levels of burnout and secondary traumatic stress. The findings confirmed that secondary trauma responses in therapists could be ameliorated through supportive and trauma-informed supervision. This thesis has significant implications for university training, supervision, and organisational support.

Doctor of Philosophy

AHUJA, Taniya Suresh

Thesis Title

Uncovering Non-Canonical Epigenetic Mechanisms in the Context of the PI3K Pathway in Breast Cancer and ACE2 in COVID-19

Supervisors

• Adjunct Professor Sudha Rao (Principal Supervisor)
• Professor Erik Thompson (Associate Supervisor)
• Dr Michelle Melino (External Supervisor)
• Dr Rajiv Khanna (External Supervisor)
• Dr Wen Juan Tu (External Supervisor)
• Adjunct Professor David Waugh (External Supervisor)

Citation

Kinases, receptors, and epigenetic enzymes have roles beyond their traditional functions, influencing metabolism, cell migration, and gene regulation. This thesis explores non-canonical functions of PI3K and ACE2 in breast cancer and COVID-19 respectively. It shows that dual inhibition of the PI3K-mTOR pathway suppresses cancer stem-like cells, reduces metastatic potential, and enhances tumour immune visibility.
In parallel, the research reveals a novel nuclear role of ACE2, where specific epigenetic modifications on ACE2 limit SARS-CoV-2 persistence in immune cells and confer protection. These findings uncover new molecular vulnerabilities and therapeutic strategies for treating breast cancer and viral infections.

AITCHESON, Savannah Margaret

Thesis Title

Investigating Inflammatory Biomarkers for Prediction of Diabetes Mellitus Related Complications

Supervisors

• Dr Rachael Murray (Principal Supervisor)
• Associate Professor Catherine Edwards (Associate Supervisor)
• Associate Professor Susanna Cramb (Associate Supervisor)

Citation

Diabetes can silently damage organs before symptoms appear, making it difficult to identify who is most at risk of serious complications before permanent tissue damage has occurred. This thesis found that immune cells in the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye, change with diabetes complications and can be imaged non-invasively in living people using a specialist eye scan. It also developed an AI tool to automatically measure these cells from eye scans, supporting faster analysis and their future use as non-invasive markers of complication risk, especially for diabetic eye disease.

ARUNACHALAM, Vignesh

Thesis Title

Characterising the Genetic Architecture of Chronic Kidney Disease in the Australia’s First Peoples Using Statistical Methods

Supervisors

• Adjunct Professor Shivashankar Hiriyur Nagaraj (Principal Supervisor)
• Associate Professor Rodney Lea (Associate Supervisor)

Citation

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) poses a substantial health burden among Indigenous Australians, particularly the Tiwi people. This thesis investigates the genetic architecture of CKD in the Tiwi population using whole-genome sequencing. Genome-wide association analyses identified population-specific loci associated with kidney traits, including MEG3, TIAM2, RAB36, and MEIS2. Runs of homozygosity analyses demonstrated elevated autozygosity and suggested a recessive contribution to albuminuria risk, with regional signals implicating FTO/CRNDE. Rare-variant analyses identified gene-based associations involving PCLO, TSPYL1, CYP4F22, and GCM2 with kidney-related and metabolic traits. Together, these findings advance understanding of CKD genetics in a genetically distinct and understudied population.

BOLITHO, Marguerite Mary

Thesis Title

Weight Loss Interventions for the Management of Obesity in Chronic Kidney Disease

Supervisors

• Associate Professor Helen MacLaughlin (Principal Supervisor)
• Professor Neil King (Associate Supervisor)
• Dr Andrea Viecelli (External Supervisor)
• Adjunct Professor David Johnson (External Supervisor)

Citation

Obesity is a leading cause of chronic kidney disease (CKD), yet safe and effective weight loss options for people living with CKD are poorly understood. This thesis reviewed weight loss interventions across all stages of CKD and found limited evidence to guide care. It then addressed an important need by examining the safety, feasibility, and acceptability of low energy diets (LEDs) for adults with living with CKD and obesity. Findings show, under medical supervision, LEDs are safe, achievable, and can support weight loss and improved health outcomes, supporting future research to explore whether they can slow kidney disease progression.

CAHILL, Christopher Michael

Thesis Title

Functional Imagery Training to Build Motivation for Self-Guided Therapy for Young People

Supervisors

• Associate Professor Melanie White (Principal Supervisor)
• Dr Jennifer Connolly (Associate Supervisor)

Citation

Digital health interventions (DHIs) offer accessible, low-cost, evidence-based mental health support for young people, yet sustained engagement remains low. This thesis explored Functional Imagery Training (FIT), which combines motivational interviewing and mental imagery techniques, as a tool to improve DHI engagement among 7- to 25-year-olds, with mixed effects. Across four studies, young people found imagery exercises engaging and accessible, but FIT did not increase engagement in the DHI. Overall, the findings support the acceptability of FIT-informed tools with DHIs and identifies factors to consider in designing and adapting DHIs with young people’s engagement in mind.

CHUA, Sophia Francesca Lu

Thesis Title

Stress Among Bus and Personal Drivers in the Philippines

Supervisors

• Professor Sharon Newnam (Principal Supervisor)
• Professor Ioni Lewis (Associate Supervisor)
• Adjunct Associate Professor Mark King (External Supervisor)

Citation

This thesis is a study on the bus transport industry in the Philippines. It identifies various risk and protective factors within the system that can mitigate or exacerbate safe driving behaviours among bus drivers. It also explains how stress acts as a bridge through which different payment schemes affect crash outcomes and investigates how stress is experienced differently by bus and personal drivers. In doing so, stress was identified as a crucial element among bus and personal drivers alike as an outcome of different systemic factors in the Philippines, with important policy implications on crash reduction in the country.

DEV, Mahesh Kumar

Thesis Title

Low Luminance Vision and Function in Older Adults with Visual Impairment from Age-related Macular Degeneration

Supervisors

• Professor Joanne Mary Wood (Principal Supervisor)
• Dr Alexander Andrew Black (Associate Supervisor)

Citation

Low light levels are encountered during everyday activities yet decrease the available visual information for balance and navigation and increase falls risk. This is relevant for those with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of irreversible visual impairment in older adults. This research measured exposure to low light levels and associated physical activity; effects of low light levels on postural stability and stepping performance in older adults with and without AMD. Findings suggest that older adults with AMD have similar magnitudes of exposure and activity levels under low light conditions, and these conditions reduce postural stability and stepping performance.

DOBRININ, Melody

Thesis Title

High-throughput Cultivation of Novel Gut Microorganisms as Biotherapeutics for the Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Supervisors

• Professor Gene Tyson (Principal Supervisor)
• Professor Tony Kenna (Associate Supervisor)
• Dr Lutz Krause (External Supervisor)
• Associate Professor Paraic O Cuiv (External Supervisor)

Citation

There is increasing interest in using gut-derived bacteria as treatments for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), however, our knowledge of the gut microbiome is still limited. This study aimed to isolate and characterise novel gut bacteria for development of live bacterial therapeutics (or next generation probiotics) to treat IBD. Using a novel technique, we isolated 422 bacteria from healthy faecal samples, 25% of which previously had not been cultured before. One target species, found to have potent anti-inflammatory activity was characterised further. From an initial pool of 120 000 bacterially derived products, a shortlist of 26 potentially anti-inflammatory products was constructed.

DUCE, Brett Lyndon

Thesis Title

Positional Obstructive Sleep Apnoea: Definitions, Prevalence and Outcomes

Supervisors

• Professor Ian Stewart (Principal Supervisor)
• Associate Professor Geoffrey Minett (Associate Supervisor)
• Adjunct Professor Juha Toyras (External Supervisor)
• Dr Antti Kulkas (External Supervisor)
• Dr Craig Hukins (External Supervisor)

Citation

This thesis investigates positional sleep apnea, a condition in which breathing stops when individuals sleep on their backs. By analysing both community and laboratory data, I demonstrate that many patients with positional sleep apnea maintain good sleep quality, while also identifying a high-risk subgroup. The research shows that current diagnostic methods often overlook individual health risks and gender differences. These findings encourage clinicians to move away from a “one size fits all” approach and toward personalised care that improves patients’ quality of life.

DYER, Marianne

Thesis Title

An Investigation of How Leadership Factors Impact the Mental Health of Emergency Service Workers

Supervisors

• Adjunct Professor Jane Shakespeare-Finch (Principal Supervisor)
• Associate Professor Erin O'Connor (Associate Supervisor)

Citation

This thesis advanced leadership theory by exploring the nature of leadership and mental health in frontline personnel. Findings highlight the crucial role of leaders in supporting the mental health of their followers and introduces a preliminary Trauma-Informed Leadership model. Using reflexive thematic analysis of interviews with paramedics and emergency medical dispatchers, the research includes analysis of leader and follower perspectives of what makes a good leader and dyadic case studies. Followers described feeling valued, less distressed, a sense of belongingness and greater opportunities for sense-making when professionally credible leaders provided meaningful support within a psychologically safe connection.

GOSPOS, Jonathan Paul

Thesis Title

Tissue Engineering an Orthotopic Humanized Rat Model as a Platform for Osteosarcoma Research to Test Surgical Resection, Bone Regeneration and Chemotherapy Delivery Methods

Supervisors

• Dr Jacqui Mcgovern (Principal Supervisor)
• Distinguished Professor Dietmar Hutmacher (Associate Supervisor)
• Dr Siamak Saifzadeh (Associate Supervisor)

Citation

This research advances treatment strategies for osteosarcoma, a primary bone cancer affecting children. The study developed humanised bone at the femur within a rat model to induce tumour development to mimic human cancer and study bone remodelling mechanisms. This model enabled testing novel treatments involving surgery, bone regeneration, and local chemotherapy. A 3D-printed scaffold-guided approach supported bone regeneration in critical-sized defects. Furthermore, chemotherapy-loaded hydrogels inhibited tumour regrowth following surgical removal and reduced toxic side effects associated with traditional chemotherapy. These findings highlight tissue-engineered devices' potential to restore bone integrity while separately demonstrating the capacity to reduce the primary tumour burden.

GUYLER, Solomon Kai

Thesis Title

Investigating Novel Genes and Mutations in the Cerebral Small Vessel Disease CADASIL and Related Cerebrovascular Disorders

Supervisors

• Distinguished Professor Lynette Griffiths (Principal Supervisor)
• Dr Heidi Sutherland (Associate Supervisor)

Citation

This project represents a significant advancement in genetic testing for inherited stroke syndromes. This thesis explored the use of next generation sequencing technologies, molecular assays, and bioinformatic analyses to identify novel associations with the most common of these conditions, CADASIL. These findings provide a basis for further investigation into the molecular mechanisms of disease and potential therapeutic targets in cerebral vascular disorders.

ILICH, Adrian Andria

Thesis Title

Mechanistic Insights into Helminth-Derived AIP-2-Induced Tolerogenic Reprogramming of Conventional Type 1 Dendritic Cells

Supervisors

• Adjunct Associate Professor Severine Navarro (Principal Supervisor)
• Professor Kirsten Spann (Associate Supervisor)
• Adjunct Associate Professor Lachlan Harris (Associate Supervisor)
• Dr Olivier Lamiable (External Supervisor)
• Adjunct Associate Professor Severine Navarro (External Supervisor)
• Adjunct Associate Professor Lachlan Harris (External Supervisor)

Citation

Allergic diseases are rising worldwide, partly because modern environments interfere with how the immune system learns to tolerate harmless substances early in life. This research investigates how a natural parasite-derived protein, AIP-2, helps immune cells switch from causing inflammation to promoting tolerance. Using advanced genomic tools, the study shows that AIP-2 rewires key immune cells to become calmer, more adaptable, and less reactive to danger signals, creating long-lasting immune tolerance. These findings reveal new biological pathways that could be harnessed to develop novel and effective treatments for allergies.

IQBAL, Asif

Thesis Title

Tear Exchange and Corneal Oedema During Scleral Lens Wear

Supervisors

• Professor Stephen Vincent (Principal Supervisor)
• Professor Michael Collins (Associate Supervisor)
• Dr Damien Fisher (Associate Supervisor)
• Dr David Caneiro (External Supervisor)

Citation

Scleral lenses are large rigid contact lenses used to treat corneal diseases. The tear fluid trapped between the scleral lens and cornea acts as a lubricant and powerful optical lens, but restricts the flow of oxygen, which can cause corneal swelling and other complications. This research showed that lens modifications, such as small perforations or recesses towards the lens edge, improve tear circulation and significantly reduce corneal swelling, reducing potential harm to limbal stem cells essential for long term corneal health.

JOHNS, Erin Mae

Thesis Title

Predicting Normal Brain Dose in Hypofractionated Stereotactic Radiotherapy for Single Brain Metastases Using Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy

Supervisors

• Associate Professor Catriona Hargrave (Principal Supervisor)
• Dr Mark Pinkham (External Supervisor)
• Dr Anne Bernard (External Supervisor)
• Adjunct Professor Lisa Nissen (Mentoring Supervisor)

Citation

This project identified a gap in reducing low dose wash in hypofractionated stereotactic radiotherapy planning for patients with single brain metastases. Predictive models were developed to estimate three low dose wash metrics to normal brain tissue. A clinical framework was subsequently created to support treatment planning optimisation and decision-making. Validation of both the predictive models and clinical framework was performed by radiation therapist planners, demonstrating their clinical usability and reproducibility in stereotactic brain radiotherapy planning.

KIMMORLEY, Annabelle Lucy

Thesis Title

Bone Health of Subadult Female Athletes: Quantitative Ultrasound in the Context of Low Energy Availability

Supervisors

• Professor Laura Gregory (Principal Supervisor)
• Dr Katherine O'Brien (Associate Supervisor)
• Adjunct Professor Christian Langton (External Supervisor)

Citation

This thesis investigated novel assessment tools to safeguard the bone health of subadult female athletes. It included a longitudinal application of calcaneal quantitative ultrasound to understand how the mechanical and elastic properties of bone may be influenced by risk of low energy availability. The role of education specific to bone health and its influence on positive behavioural change amongst athletes, was also explored. The applied outcomes of this study are useful to guide athletes and their support staff in the modification of personal and sport related constraints, to reduce the overall risk of bone injury.

LAMB, Henry Oscar

Thesis Title

Development of Peptides to Treat Drug-Resistant Melanoma

Supervisors

• Associate Professor Sonia Troeira Henriques (Principal Supervisor)
• Dr Aurelie Benfield (Associate Supervisor)

Citation

This thesis investigates the use of a cell-penetrating peptide drug scaffold to target drug-resistant melanoma, which don’t respond to standard of care therapy. After a decade of no success targeting drug-resistant melanoma, this thesis reports the development of a drug scaffold with selectivity towards melanoma cells. The peptide drug can enter into melanoma cells without disrupting the cell integrity and be adapted to target a particular protein. The lead peptide demonstrates clinically promising results in animal models and can be modified to target metabolic proteins overexpressed in drug-resistant melanoma.

LANGLEY, Donna Louise

Thesis Title

Dysregulation of the Immune System After Paediatric Burn Injury Delays Healing

Supervisors

• Professor Tony Kenna (Principal Supervisor)
• Professor Danielle Gallegos (Associate Supervisor)
• Adjunct Associate Professor Leila Cuttle (External Supervisor)

Citation

Burn injuries in children can disrupt the immune system, leading to delayed healing and long-term health problems. This research showed that paediatric burn injury causes prolonged immune activation and vitamin D deficiency, linked to poorer healing and scarring, suggesting opportunities to improve recovery through immune and nutritional support. This study examined immune responses and vitamin D levels in children after burn injury, from the acute phase to several years later. The findings show inflammation often remains active long after wounds close, helping explain delayed healing and scar formation, and highlighting opportunities to improve long-term recovery in paediatric burn survivors.

LEMOS, Elisa Cristina

Thesis Title

The Dosage Effects and Proposed Implementation of Passive Heating for Neuromuscular Performance

Supervisors

• Associate Professor Geoffrey Minett (Principal Supervisor)
• Professor Ian Stewart (Associate Supervisor)
• Associate Professor Gabriel Siqueira Trajano (Associate Supervisor)

Citation

This thesis explored how passive heating, such as sitting in hot water, affects muscle performance. By examining different heating durations and working with international experts, the research identified the most effective and safe ways to use heat to improve muscle function. The findings show that shorter heating sessions can enhance certain aspects of muscle performance, while a single long session does not create lasting changes. This work provides practical guidance for athletes, clinicians, and individuals who may benefit from heat-based therapies.

MARSHALL, Carl Peter

Thesis Title

Unleashing Creativity in Rugby Union: Rethinking Tradition to Inspire Innovation

Supervisors

• Associate Professor Adam Gorman (Principal Supervisor)
• Associate Professor Brendan Moy (Associate Supervisor)
• Adjunct Associate Professor Ian Renshaw (Associate Supervisor)
• Dr Scott Russell (External Supervisor)

Citation

This thesis explored why creativity appears to be declining in elite Australian rugby and how it can be intentionally developed. Using rugby as the sport of interest, the research showed that creativity thrives when players are encouraged to explore, take risks, and work together, rather than follow rigid, highly controlled training methods. Drawing on four linked studies, the thesis demonstrates how playful, varied experiences, and carefully designed training environments help players adapt, innovate, and make creative decisions under pressure. The research offers practical guidance for coaches and sporting organisations seeking to restore creativity and enjoyment in high-performance sport.

MARTÍNEZ BUELVAS, Laura Patricia

Thesis Title

Designing Safe and Equitable Interactions Between Vulnerable Road Users (VRUs) and Connected and Automated Vehicles (CAVs)

Supervisors

• Professor Andry Rakotonirainy (Principal Supervisor)
• Professor MD. Mazharul Haque (Associate Supervisor)
• Dr Oscar Oviedo Trespalacios (External Supervisor)
• Adjunct Professor Deanna Grant-Smith (External Supervisor)

Citation

This thesis investigates how driverless vehicles can be introduced in ways that are safe, fair, and inclusive, especially for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists, and people with disabilities. Drawing on community perspectives and policy analysis, the research reveals how emerging transport technologies may reinforce existing inequalities if not carefully designed and deployed. Using interviews, photovoice methods, and surveys, the study presents practical, justice-centred recommendations to guide the ethical rollout of connected and automated vehicles (CAVs), ensuring they improve safety, accessibility, and equity for all members of society.

MATIN, Farhana

Thesis Title

The Biomarker and Therapeutic Potential of MicroRNAs in Prostate Cancer

Supervisors

• Professor Jyotsna Batra (Principal Supervisor)
• Dr Varinder Jeet (Associate Supervisor)
• Distinguished Professor Judith Clements (External Supervisor)

Citation

Prostate cancer is a major cause of cancer-related deaths in men worldwide. The current method of prostate cancer diagnosis, the Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) test, might lead to over-diagnosis and over-treatment. Therefore, identification of alternative biomarkers capable of early detection and distinguishing between indolent and aggressive disease, and therapeutic targeting of such biomarkers might enable individualised therapeutic management of patients. MicroRNAs, a class of small RNA species regulating gene expression, offer a viable option as diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets due to their altered expression in cancers. This thesis explored the biomarker and therapeutic potential of microRNAs in prostate cancer.

MCAULEY, Erynn Anne

Thesis Title

Improving Diet Quality in Adults with Chronic Kidney Disease

Supervisors

• Dr Lynda Ross (Principal Supervisor)
• Associate Professor Helen MacLaughlin (Associate Supervisor)
• Associate Professor Mary Hannan-Jones (Mentoring Supervisor)

Citation

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive condition with increasing global prevalence. Healthy eating is considered first-line treatment for CKD, however evidence for this is largely observational. This thesis aimed to develop, implement and evaluate self-efficacy based dietary interventions to improve diet quality in adults with CKD. Three sequential studies evaluated diet quality measurement tools, explored diet quality, self-efficacy and health literacy and tested the feasibility and acceptability of Kidney-Healthy Eating and Lifestyle Programs (Kidney-HELP). Findings showed adults with CKD had poor diet quality. Higher self-efficacy was associated with better diet quality. Kidney-HELP partially met acceptability, retention and adherence targets.

MOLAEE, Zizi

Thesis Title

Investigating Heritable Stroke Genes in Migraine and Migraine Related Disorders

Supervisors

• Distinguished Professor Lynette Griffiths (Principal Supervisor)
• Dr Robert Smith (Associate Supervisor)
• Dr Neven Maksemous (Associate Supervisor)

Citation

This research investigated the genetic relationship between migraine and stroke-related small vessel disease using whole exome sequencing, family-based analysis, and case-control association studies. Several rare variants were identified in genes involved in vascular integrity, endothelial function, and neuronal signalling, including CTC1, LRP1, NOTCH3, COL4A2, and ACE. A significant association was identified between a CTC1 variant and migraine susceptibility, supporting shared neurovascular mechanisms underlying migraine and cerebrovascular disease. These findings expand current understanding of migraine genetics and provide a foundation for future precision diagnostics and targeted therapeutic strategies.

NANDAVAR, Sonali

Thesis Title

Understanding the Lived Experiences of Individuals Unintentionally Responsible for Road Trauma: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis

Supervisors

• Professor Ioni Lewis (Principal Supervisor)
• Adjunct Professor Jane Shakespeare-Finch (Associate Supervisor)

Citation

While considerable research has focused on the survivors of road trauma, very little is known about the experiences of those who are unintentionally responsible for this trauma. This research explored the lived experiences of these individuals, with the findings revealing significant post-trauma outcomes experienced by this population. In providing a voice to this group of individuals who are often overlooked in the literature, several important implications for policy and practice had emerged, particularly regarding efforts to better support those living with the aftermath of such complex, traumatic events.

NASRIN, Fatema

Thesis Title

Characterisation of In Vivo Corneal Dendritic Cells

Supervisors

• Dr Rachael Murray (Principal Supervisor)
• Associate Profession Catherine Edwards (Associate Supervisor)
• Dr Luisa Holguin Colorado (Associate Supervisor)

Citation

Understanding the immune cells in a healthy cornea is essential to unlock better diagnostics and treatments for eye diseases. Baseline values for these cells in healthy individuals, and how systemic health profiles affect immune cells are overlooked in the existing literature. This study showed that sex, age, metabolic factors, and the lifestyles of participants should be considered while selecting control participants for future studies of corneal research. Comparing live imaging against ex vivo methods, this study confirmed the identification of these cells which enhances our understanding of ocular immunity and can aid in developing precise and personalised eye care.

NGUYEN, Le Bao Duy

Thesis Title

Nanotubes: Bridges for Pathological Factor(s) Transport and Communication to Develop Treatment-Responsive Models of Neurodegeneration

Supervisors

• Associate Professor Larisa Haupt (Principal Supervisor)
• Dr Rachel Okolicsanyi (Associate Supervisor)
• Distinguished Professor Lynette Griffiths (Associate Supervisor)

Citation

Alzheimer's disease spreads toxic proteins between brain cells, destroying neurons and impairing cognition. This thesis investigated how heparan sulfate proteoglycans — molecules on the surface of neural stem cells — regulate both brain cell development and disease spread. Using human neural progenitor cell models, two compounds, heparin and lithium chloride, were shown to promote healthy brain cell growth and reduce Alzheimer's-related damage at low doses. Notably, these molecules control microscopic tunnels between cells used to transmit toxic proteins, identifying a promising new target for Alzheimer's therapy.

OLIVIER, Mico Hannes

Thesis Title

Exploring the Application of Performance Analysis and Physiology in Women's Water Polo

Supervisors

• Associate Professor Vincent Kelly (Principal Supervisor)
• Associate Professor Adam Gorman (Associate Supervisor)
• Dr Mark Connick (External Supervisor)

Citation

This thesis took a step forward to determine the importance of high-intensity intermittent endurance to support defensive performance in Australian women's water polo. By establishing robust protocols for determining physiological fitness, assessing common defensive formations and then quantifying defensive performance indicators, the thesis sought to provide coaches and practitioners with more targeted approaches to improve the design of the training process in women’s water polo.

PEALL, Ian William

Thesis Title

Developing 3D in vitro Models of Human Neurogenesis to Investigate Heparan Sulfate Proteoglycans (HSPGs) in Neural Lineage Specification

Supervisors

• Associate Professor Larisa Haupt (Principal Supervisor)
• Dr Rachel Okolicsanyi (Associate Supervisor)
• Distinguished Professor Lynette Griffiths (Associate Supervisor)

Citation

Neurogenesis is the process of making new brain cells, which in humans happens mainly in the hippocampus — a part of the brain important for memory and learning. The hippocampus has unique physical features that influence how new cells grow and develop. Forming new neurons is a complicated process, with cells passing through several stages before they fully mature. These stages are tightly controlled, but many details remain unclear in humans. This thesis explored these unknowns by creating a 3D cell model that mimics the hippocampus, helping us better understand how neurogenesis is regulated.

RAZAFIMAHEFA, Rina Hariniaina

Thesis Title

Towards Effective Road Safety Management Systems in Low- and Middle- Income Countries: An Analytical Case Study of Madagascar

Supervisors

• Professor Narelle Haworth (Principal Supervisor)
• Professor Sharon Newnam (Associate Supervisor)
• Adjunct Associate Professor Mark King (External Supervisor)

Citation

This thesis advances the understanding of road safety management (RSM) in low- and middle-income countries through an adaptive, context-sensitive analytical (AC-RSM) model. Using Madagascar as a case study, it adopts a mixed-methods approach combining crash data analysis, policy review, and stakeholder interviews. Findings show that RSM effectiveness depends not only on the presence of institutional functions, but on how they interact and align within broader political, economic, and socio-cultural contexts. Fragmented institutions, limited capacity, weak data systems, and contextual constraints undermine system performance. This AC-RSM model provides a practical framework to analyse interdependencies and support adaptive reforms in resource-constrained settings.

REJALI, Seyed Sina

Thesis Title

Insights to Inform Enhanced Distracted Driving Prevention: Understanding How Official Information and Road Rules are Structured, Perceived, and Can Be Improved

Supervisors

• Dr Sherrie-Anne Kaye (Principal Supervisor)
• Dr Xiaomeng Li (Associate Supervisor)
• Dr Oscar Oviedo Trespalacios (External Supervisor)
• Adjunct Professor Teresa Senserrick (External Supervisor)
• Dr Natalie Watson-Brown (External Supervisor)

Citation

Distracted driving is a road safety issue that contributes significantly to crashes worldwide. As distraction sources continue to expand and evolve, preventing distracted driving has become increasingly challenging. Therefore, this thesis provides a comprehensive investigation into distracted driving prevention, with a focus on how official information and road rules are structured, perceived, and can be improved to address distracted driving more effectively. Using a mixed-methods approach, this research provided insights into how distracted driving is addressed in official information and rules, how drivers perceive these materials, and where improvements can be made in their content, design, and communication.

ROBERTSON, Aaron Paul

Thesis Title

Ultrasound Evaluation of Calcaneal Bone Properties in Children and Adolescents with and without Calcaneal Apophysitis

Supervisors

• Professor Laura Gregory (Principal Supervisor)
• Dr Kelly Stewart (Associate Supervisor)
• Adjunct Professor Christian Langton (External Supervisor)
• Dr Brendan Jones (External Supervisor)
• Professor Scott Wearing (External Supervisor)

Citation

This program of research used quantitative ultrasound and computed tomography to evaluate the structural and material properties of the calcaneus in children and adolescents, with and without calcaneal apophysitis. This thesis has also methodologically quantified and described the potential assumptions made of the application of ultrasound attenuation and velocity assessments of the calcaneus in children and adolescents and provided recommendations to improve such measurements. Ultimately, this thesis has provided further insight into the potential mechanisms of calcaneal apophysitis and highlighted changes in bone properties that accompany heel pain in children.

RUBENS, Mackenzie Ashley Victor

Thesis Title

Longitudinal Biopsychosocial Markers of Posttraumatic Outcomes in a Population of Emergency Responders

Supervisors

• Professor Divya Deepak Mehta (Principal Supervisor)
• Adjunct Professor Jane Shakespeare-Finch (Associate Supervisor)

Citation

This thesis explored the drivers of divergent trauma outcomes in Queensland paramedics, firefighters, and emergency medical dispatchers. By integrating genomic and epigenetic data with psychosocial metrics, this project offered an example of biopsychosocial modelling in an occupational trauma context. The findings support the development of preventative strategies that target modifiable psychosocial risk factors, informed by an individual’s broader biological and organisational context.

SAMARASINGHE, Sumudu Rangika

Thesis Title

Pharmacogenomics and Health Equity: Genetic Determinants of Drug Response in Underrepresented Populations

Supervisors

• Adjunct Professor Shivashankar Hiriyur Nagaraj (Principal Supervisor)
• Dr Paul Leo (Associate Supervisor)

Citation

Interindividual variability in drug response remains a major challenge to treatment safety and effectiveness. This thesis addresses critical gaps in pharmacogenomics (PGx) by focusing on underrepresented populations and unexplained variability in drug response. It characterises PGx profiles in Tiwi Indigenous Australians and a rural Ugandan cohort, demonstrating the importance of pre-emptive testing for improving medication safety. This research also evaluates long read sequencing to overcome limitations of traditional genotyping approaches and explores the contribution of DNA methylation to unexplained variability in drug response. Overall, this work advances PGx testing by supporting more accurate, population-informed, and personalised therapeutic strategies.

TAYLOR, Sarah Jean

Thesis Title

The Use of Remote Coaching Technologies in Para Sport: Understanding Coach-Athlete-Environment Interactions

Supervisors

• Associate Professor Adam Gorman (Principal Supervisor)
• Associate Professor Brendan Moy (Associate Supervisor)
• Dr Ross Pinder (External Supervisor)
• Adjunct Professor Remco Polman (External Supervisor)
• Adjunct Associate Professor Ian Renshaw (External Supervisor)

Citation

This thesis explores the use of digital and online technologies to deliver live or synchronous coaching in Para Sport contexts. This research combines ethnographic methodologies with concepts and ideas from ecological psychology, specifically, 'behaviour settings', to explore coach-athlete interactions as they emerge in different environments. The findings highlighted that remote coaching is more than just an acceptable alternative in-lieu of in-person coaching opportunities. Remote coaching presents both challenges and opportunities for coaches to explore outside their typical delivery and pedagogical approaches, presenting chances for creativity and coach learning.

TAYLOR, Sara

Thesis Title

Exploring the Scabies-Associated Microbiota to Understand the Pathobiology of Scabies-Related Secondary Skin Infections

Supervisors

• Adjunct Associate Professor Katja Fischer (Principal Supervisor)
• Associate Professor Elise Pelzer (Associate Supervisor)
• Dr Deepani Fernando (External Supervisor)
• Dr Martha Zakrzewski (External Supervisor)
• Adjunct Professor Louise Bishop (External Supervisor)

Citation

This thesis explored the scabies-associated microbiota utilising 16S rRNA long-read sequencing, revealing the profound and frequently under-recognised connection between scabies and secondary bacterial infections. A multi-centre study demonstrated that scabies infections increased the relative abundance of the opportunistic pathogens Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. The work further elucidated the intrinsic role of bacteria in scabies infections by identifying a conserved core microbiome within Sarcoptes scabiei mites, comprising multiple opportunistic pathogens. Finally, a novel scabicide with antimicrobial properties was evaluated in vivo and shown to prevent opportunistic pathogen colonisation while promoting eubiosis.

VINOY, Navia

Thesis Title

Understanding the Role of Peroxisomes in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD)

Supervisors

• Professor V Nathan Subramaniam (Principal Supervisor)
• Associate Professor Daniel Wallace (Associate Supervisor)
• Dr Gautam Rishi (External Supervisor)

Citation

Peroxisomes are important for proper cell function. This study explored how problems with key peroxisome genes, especially PEX13, affect liver health. Using gene editing and novel cellular models, we showed that faulty PEX13, as found in some patients, impairs liver cell function, resulting in fat build-up, increased cellular stress, and disruption of normal fat processing. These cells are also more likely to die through iron-dependent cell death. Overall, the findings of this thesis demonstrate that poor peroxisome function can disrupt liver cell balance and provide new insight into their important role in the development and progression of fatty liver disease.

VOSS, Sarah

Thesis Title

Optimising Extracellular Vesicle Isolation and Characterisation: Insights into Cell Culture Parameters, Isolation Techniques, and Functional Impact on Cell Plasticity

Supervisors

• Associate Professor Danica Hickey (Principal Supervisor)
• Dr Adi Idris (Associate Supervisor)
• Adjunct Associate Professor Andreas Moller (External Supervisor)
• Professor Bryan Day (External Supervisor)

Citation

Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are nanoscale membrane-bound particles that mediate intercellular communication and are increasingly investigated in cancer research. However, their clinical translation remains limited by variability in isolation methodologies, non-vesicular contamination, and incomplete understanding of how upstream culture conditions influence vesicle composition. This thesis systematically evaluates established and emerging sEV isolation strategies from cell culture media and plasma and examines how serum supplementation and culture format affect vesicle yield and protein cargo. It further explores how targeted enrichment of a single sEV-associated protein influences downstream signalling responses in recipient cancer cells, linking upstream experimental design with functional cellular outcomes.

WINTEN, Copeland Grace

Thesis Title

Nourishing Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder: A Multiphased Dietetic Intervention

Supervisors

• Dr Lynda Ross (Principal Supervisor)
• Dr Jennifer Thomas (External Supervisor)
• Associate Professor Esben Strodl (Mentoring Supervisor)

Citation

This thesis presents foundational research on the eating disorder diagnosis, avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) in Australia. It features a literature review culminating in a meta-analysis of therapeutic treatments for adolescents and adults. Additionally, a qualitative study reviews care for ARFID, comparing the lived experiences of individuals, their families and clinicians. This research is integrated with a pilot intervention involving dietetic-led cognitive-behavioral therapy for ARFID. Overall, the thesis offers initial insights into improving treatment and care for adults living with ARFID in Australia.

Undergraduate

Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology)

• ABBOTT, Kimberly Lee
• AMIN, Aafreen
• BALASSA, Lili
• BARDE, Mangesh
• BENNETT, Zahlia Ryleigh
• CHANDLER, Dakota Mai
• CHEN, Li Sim
• CHEUNG, Ho Fai
• CHOUDHARY, Vaishnavi
• CHUI, Pok Man
• CLARKE, Edward
• CONEY, Isabella June Grace
• CONVERY, Declan John
• CURTIS, Emily Josephine
• DARMAWAN, Shabrina Daru Azzahra
• FAUX, Nadja
• FORBES, Heath Cuchulain
• GARDNER, Emma Marisa
• GILL, Ella Renae
• GRAHAM, Cherie Rose
• HABIBULLAH, Muhammad Akmal
• HANNAWAY, Lillian Grace
• HARTLEY, Nicholas Harry Anthony
• JOHNSON, Tara Lola Patricia
• KARAFA, Terry
• KEANE, Amelia
• KEDDIE, Taylah Jade
• KELLY, Josephine Mary
• KESSIA, Nshimirimana
• LANCHESTER, Lewis Quinn
• LANIGAN, Harper Merryn
• LEONARD, Benjamin Thomas
• LEWANDOWSKI, Kora
• LIDDLE, Melina Raye Verthveryl
• LIEW, Jun Yi
• MCGRATH, Natasha Mary
• MEMAN, Samaara
• MITCHELL, Abbey Maree
• MOKO, Amber-Marie
• NAIDOO, Hereshen
• NG, Benjamin
• NINAN, Aksa
• O'RIELLEY, Sarah Louise
• PENNY, Ethan Paul Robert
• PHAN, Nguyen Tuong Vy
• PROVE, Georgina Lea
• PUTRI, Elena Christeen Aditya
• RASYID, Farhan Ibrahim
• REW-RAMSEY, Ariana Kayla
• RHODES, Penalope Viviens
• RIZKY, Sarah Affifah
• RUSSELL, Hannah
• SCHRODER, Mackenzie May
• SCOTT, Nikita Xanthe
• SHAFIYYA, Audy Maira
• SHITW, Anas Raed Bahnam
• STEPHENS, Juval Marcel
• SUBONG, Danielle Ann
• TAHIR, Rida
• TAM, Annabelle Mia
• TAYLOR, Jordyn Louise
• TIMMS, Joe Porter
• VILAYSACK, Haydn Lin Chen Ting
• WICKRAMASURIYA, Victoria Mirani
• WILEY, Jessica May
• WILKINSON, Josiah Robin
• WILLERSDORF, Ella Grace
• WOOD, Kale Brendan
• WU, Shin-Jin

Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology) – with Distinction

• ARLIN, Hasina Syifa
• BRAY, Amity Elizabeth
• CONYNGHAM, Ella Grace
• D'HAGE, Sophie Grace
• DOIDGE, Zoe Grace
• FARRELL, Emma June
• GILMORE, Kayla Renee
• GREENER, Shaun Michael
• HOLTUM, Catherine Maree
• IBRAHIMOGLU, Chelsie Skye
• KEIR, Jack William
• LONG, Victoria Robin
• LUSCOMBE, Laura Rose
• MCCULLAGH, Katie
• MCLEAN, Bella Rose
• NETTLETON, Emma Irene
• RENAUT, Alyssa Josephine
• SMYTH, Toni Frances
• STOVER-JOHNSTON, Tabitha Jayne
• TAM, Deanna Lizzy

Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Anatomical Sciences)

• DUNNING, Liam Alexander
• MACCAR, Nathalie

Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Cell and Molecular Biotechnology)

• DOSS, Constance Abigail
• GYE, Ryan Jay
• LYNCH, Penelope Kirsteen

Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Human Biochemistry)

• BAGASKARA, Aloysius Gonzaga Arya
• HADIYOL, Sooraj Prakashchandra
• LE BHERZ, Jonah Luke Mitchell

Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Human Physiology)

• BEASLEY, Alessandra Nikita
• BROWN, Austin Harrison
• GORDON-DOUGLAS, Joshua Alexander
• SORENSEN, Taylah May
• YUNG, Mike Hong

Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Infection and Immunity)

• ABDALLA, Nooryan
• ALBERTYN, Branden Louw
• BROOKFIELD, Hannah Joy
• MARSHALL, Tomas Peter
• O'LEARY, Tea Helena
• SHAW, William Francis
• WARDLE, Isabeau

Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Anatomical Sciences) – with Distinction

• NAIDU, Mohdarshan
• TAUNTON, Brock Barry

Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Cell and Molecular Biotechnology) – with Distinction

• CESLIS, Anna Alma

Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Human Biochemistry) – with Distinction

• COLLIER, Madison Grace

Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Human Physiology) – with Distinction

• SHAW, Sigrid Elizabeth

Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Infection and Immunity) – with Distinction

• MCGONIGAL, Ewan Graham
• MISRA, Tianah Chante

Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology

• LEISEMANN, Joseph Emerson
• MA, Shara Jill Montuno
• MARTINOVIC, Logan Anthony
• TONKIN-JONES, Isabella Emily
• TRAN, Nina Uyen

Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology – with Distinction

• BROWN, Tayah Lili

Bachelor of Health Studies

• IRFAN, Marzia
• NEELI, Vedh
• SANDERSON, Jade Bridget
• SPICER-PATEL, Savanna Janisha

Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science

• LUU, Ngoc Nam Phuong

Bachelor of Podiatry

• SARDELICH, Daniel Bin Amir Paul

Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science

• ARRIAGADA-MALONE, Themys Antonio
• BOURNE, Zoe
• NAMALIU, Aaron Henry Oscar
• PATERSON, Zane
• PYNT, Broden
• YIP, Ning Hei

Bachelor of Sport and Exercise Science – with Distinction

• GRAHAM, Tyler Anthony
• KURODA, Jaden Taiki

Bachelor of Vision Science

• BURROWS, Shani Joy

Bachelor of Vision Science – with Distinction

• CODERO, Dorothy John Echavia

Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology)/Bachelor of Social Work

• ACEVEDO VALDELAMAR, Sara Kristina
• NICHOLSON, Kellie Rose

Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology)/Bachelor of Social Work – with Distinction

• IACOPETTA, Blake Salvatore
• PITT, Ruby Louise

Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology) – with Distinction/Bachelor of Social Work – with Distinction

• MCCOY, Ayla

Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology)/Bachelor of Business (Accounting)

• LY, Rebecca

Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology)/Bachelor of Business (Advertising)

• SINCLAIR, Rory James

Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology)/Bachelor of Business (Human Resource Management)

• BRIIGMANN, Liam Robert
• COOGAN, Jacob Patrick Keith
• ELLIS, Charli Zara
• ROBERTSON, Grace Annabelle

Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology)/Bachelor of Business (International Business)

• WALSH, Hannah Louise

Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology)/Bachelor of Business (Management)

• ANTONARAKIS, Marissa
• HOF, Kym Ellen
• JACKSON, Ashanti Angella
• MCARTHUR, Declan James
• PERKINS, Ryan James

Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology)/Bachelor of Business (Marketing)

• JOHANNESEN, Greta Kate
• MCLEAN, Abigail Jane
• RUIZ, Alejo
• WILLE, Deklan John Brisbane

Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology)/Bachelor of Business (Behavioural Economics) – with Distinction

• MCCORD, Katie Ellen

Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology)/Bachelor of Business (Economics) – with Distinction

• ALBERT, Rose Emily

Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology) – with Distinction/Bachelor of Business (Finance)

• WHITBY, Samuel Thomas Seeney

Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology) – with Distinction/Bachelor of Business (Human Resource Management)

• STALLMANN, Sam William

Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology)/Bachelor of Business (Human Resource Management) – with Distinction

• THUN, Aimee Rose

Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology) – with Distinction/Bachelor of Business (Behavioural Economics) – with Distinction

• WILLMORE, Phoebe Eleanor Emily
• YOUNG, Alex Loren

Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology) – with Distinction/Bachelor of Business (Finance) – with Distinction

• BRAMADAT, Sean Alexander Donald
• SUTHERLAND, Madeleine Jean

Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Psychology) – with Distinction/Bachelor of Business (Marketing) – with Distinction

• AGASSIZ, Casey Jessica
• BEECHAM, Jaimee Christina
• NELSON, Maxwell
• ROBERTS, Teneesha Carly

Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Anatomical Sciences)/Bachelor of Business (International Business)

• BIRNIE, Caitlin Lucy

Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Cell and Molecular Biotechnology)/Bachelor of Business (International Business)

• CHAPMAN, Kathleen Natasha

Bachelor of Biomedical Science – with Distinction/Bachelor of Mathematics (Operations Research) – with Distinction

• HOANG, Minh Tuan

Bachelor of Biomedical Science – with Distinction/Bachelor of Mathematics (Statistics) – with Distinction

• TAYLOR, Zissa Isabella Gem

Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Physiology (Honours) – Second Class Honours – Division A

• DOWNS, Harrison Paul

Bachelor of Medical Imaging (Honours) – Second Class Honours – Division A

• CHEN, Guye

Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics (Honours) – Third Class Honours

• AGOVIC, Amina
• YEO, Emily Min Li

Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics (Honours) – Second Class Honours – Division B

• NASIR, Humza

Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) – Second Class Honours – Division B

• ELMAN, Sivan
• SIBILANT, Dante

Bachelor of Pharmacy (Honours) – Second Class Honours – Division A

• LEE, Stephanie

Bachelor of Behavioural Science (Honours Psychology) – First Class Honours

• BURKE, Caitlin Grace
• MENDOZA, Kaycee Eugene
• TOPP, Hamish

Postgraduate

Graduate Certificate in Podiatric Therapeutics

• ALZAMELY, Hawra
• MOHAMMAD, Saleh
• SANJARI, Elaheh
• TAYLOR, Joshua Amos

Graduate Diploma in Cardiac Ultrasound

• CLAYTON, Fraser
• DE ZILVA, Emily Janelle
• LIN, Shu Min
• MCLENNAN, Ewen Ford
• WADE, Candace-Rose
• WAITES, Christopher William Hasting

Graduate Diploma in Diagnostic Genomics

• KARPE, Krishna Murthy

Master of Clinical Psychology – with Distinction

• BRENNAN, Madison Jaye
• JAUCH, Michael
• LEGG, Maddison Ebony
• MARZOLINI, Isabella
• MOORE, Charlie Jade
• RACH, Timothy James Steuart
• SLOKAR, Brandon Kenstan

Master of Diagnostic Genomics

• CURTIS, Samuel Kenyon
• HARBIDGE, Jaimee Rose
• MAISURI, Arohi
• SCOTT, Ebony-Rose

Master of Diagnostic Genomics – with Distinction

• ARKHIPOV, Alexander
• FAGA, Claire

Master of Optometry

• BAN, Binita
• DANG, Thi Hang Nga
• KIM, Hyun Jung

Master of Psychology (Educational and Developmental) – with Distinction

• DERN, Gabrielle
• GULHATI, Gurmeher Kaur
• HALL, Ebonie Ann
• HERRING, Claudia Grace
• JONES, Kelly
• MACLEAN, Michaela Alexandra
• MALLON, Caoimhe Anne O'Brien
• MCDONALD, Jessie Elizabeth
• PULLMAN, Elizabeth Rose
• PURSER, Fiona Melanie
• THORPE, Alesha Maree
• WENDT, Sophie Rose

Master of Philosophy

• BLYTHE, Brandon Christen
• HANNANT, Samuel John
• NGUYEN, Minh Nghia
• PANT, Mukund
• STOKES, Rielly Anna Calvert
• TAYLOR, Amelia Anne
• WATSON, Sharon Claire
• ZAJACZKOWSKI, Mary Ann

Master of Philosophy (Biomedical Science)

• MCNALLY, Keeley

Master of Philosophy (Paramedicine)

• ROBERTSON, Steven Charles