THE RALPH READER PRIZE

The Ralph Reader Prize (originally the Young Investigators Award) was first presented in 1980.  Named after Dr Ralph Reader, a tribute to his encouragement of young investigators during his time as Medical Director of the National Heart Foundation from 1961-70 and as Director and Chief Executive from 1970 until his retirement in 1980.The Ralph Reader Prize remains the most prestigious research award to young investigators by the Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand (CSANZ).

Finalists will be selected in each section, Basic and Clinical Science, to present their work in the Ralph Reader prize session at the CSANZ Annual Scientific Meeting.  The Ralph Reader Prize is awarded to the best individual presentation in each prize session.  Traditionally the Ralph Reader Prize Finalists in Basic Science speak following the RT Hall Lecture at the Opening of each CSANZ ASM. The Finalists in Clinical Science present the following morning after the Kempson Maddox Lecture.  

RALPH READER BASIC SCIENCE 2021

WINNER

Dr Meredith Redd, University of Queensland

Meredith is a postdoctoral research fellow at the University of Queensland’s Institute for Molecular Bioscience. Her current work investigates the mechanisms that underlie cell death during cardiac ischemia-induced acidosis, with a specific focus on the use of venom-derived peptides that target acid sensing ion channels for potential cardio-protective therapies.

Abstract: Genetic and pharmacological studies reveal acid sensing ion channel 1a as a novel therapeutic target against cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury.

Read abstract in full here, as published in the Heart, Lung and Circulation Journal.

Finalist – Runner Up

Dr Jocelyne Mulangala, Centenary Institute  

Jocelyne is a current postdoc based at the Centenary Institute Sydney, in the Vascular Biology Lab headed by Professor Jennifer Gamble, where her research is focused on understanding the role of senescence in Alzheimers Disease.

Abstract: Elevated Calcium Increases Calcification to Impair Ischemia-Driven Angiogenesis

Read abstract in full here, as published in the Heart, Lung and Circulation Journal.

RALPH READER CLINICAL SCIENCE 2021

WINNER

Dr Himawan Fernando, The Alfred Hospital, Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, VIC

Himawan completed his advanced training in Cardiology at The Alfred, Ballarat and Bendigo Hospitals. He is currently undertaking a PhD through Monash University, The Alfred and Baker Heart and Diabetes Institutes. He currently undertakes clinical work at The Alfred and Bendigo Health.

Abstract: Lignocaine versus Opioids in Coronary Intervention: Assessing Antiplatelet Activity and Ticagrelor Levels (LOCAL) Study.

Read abstract in full here, as published in the Heart, Lung and Circulation Journal.

Finalist

Dr Aditya Bhat, Blacktown Hospital

Aditya is a research fellow and consultant cardiologist at Blacktown Hospital, pursuing a professional doctorate (DrPH) as part of the Future Health Leaders Program at the University of New South Wales. His doctoral studies focus on the epidemiology, novel mechanisms and models of care in ischaemic stroke and atrial fibrillation.

Abstract: Diagnostic and prognostic value of novel echocardiographic biomarkers in identification of cardioembolism and prediction of outcomes in patients with stroke of undetermined source.

Read abstract in full here, as published in the Heart, Lung and Circulation Journal. 

Finalist

Ms Fiona Dee, Hunter New England Health

Fiona is the project lead for the Management of Rural Acute Coronary Syndromes and a senior Cardiology nurse and Cardiac Stream Co-Lead for Hunter New England Health in New South Wales. Fiona is a current PhD student with a focus on systems of care for management of rural and regional Cardiology patients. Fiona has an background in clinical cardiology, clinical governance and research.
 
Abstract: Management of Rural Acute Coronary Syndromes (MORACS)  A Cluster, Randomised Controlled Trial.

Read Abstract in full here, as published in the Heart, Lung and Circulation Journal. 

Ralph Reader Prize Winners