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Sydney Health Partners Roadshow heads North

Northern Sydney Local Health District hosted the latest stop on Sydney Health Partners’ 2025 roadshow, Translation in Action.

More than 70 researchers and clinicians gathered at the Kolling Institute to hear presentations by colleagues involved in translational research projects, and to see how Sydney Health Partners is assisting research translation.

The Kolling’s Academic Director Professor James Elliott said the district is proud to work with Sydney Health Partners to support the introduction of new approaches.

“By introducing these better models of care on a bigger scale, we have the potential to reach large parts of the community within our district, and to test these approaches for a much larger population,” he said.

He encouraged everyone to consider the research opportunities in their individual field.

“We know that districts with an active research culture, where research is embedded as part of clinical care, deliver better patient experiences and better long-term health outcomes.”

Acting Executive Director of Sydney Health Partners, Professor Andrew Baillie, described the research translation pipeline, from discovery to implementation.

“The truth is that some great, evidence-based, interventions never make it to the other end of the pipe,” he said. “In that sense, Sydney Health Partners can be viewed as plumbers trying to fix a leaky and complicated set of pipes, and implementation science is one of our plumbing tools.”

Leading medical oncologist Professor Stephen Clarke praised the efforts of everyone involved with SHP to embed research in the day-to-day operations of hospitals.

“It used to be that research was almost regarded as the self-indulgence that interfered with core hospital business, and I think what we’re doing now is saying it’s an essential part of health services,” he said.

Following the Roadshow NSLHD Executive Director of Research, Associate Professor Naomi Hammond said the information presented had been timely.

“What I’m seeing is that there’s more and more people coming now to ask what they can do to get research happening in their area,” she said.

“I think this is where Sydney HealthPartners comes in: an expert research group that can support clinician researchers to bring research into their practice.”

14 November 2025
New study tests how stress and big meals can trigger a heart attack

A heavy Christmas lunch, an argument or even smoke from a bushfire may seem harmless, but for people at risk of heart disease, they could be deadly.

A new study is investigating how emotional stress, pollution, chest infections, and large meals can trigger heart attacks in vulnerable people, and importantly, how to manage those triggers in the moment.

Royal North Shore Hospital cardiologist and Kolling Institute researcher Professor Geoffrey Tofler is leading the clinical trial, which is now recruiting people to test whether taking aspirin or beta blockers at the time of a trigger can help prevent cardiac events.

During the trial, participants will use an app to log symptoms and receive stress-reduction advice.

Professor Tofler, who has researched heart attacks for close to 40 years, says the science tells us that some heart attacks aren’t random.

“If people are aware of the triggers, there’s something they can do about them,” he said.

The research team is looking for 120 people over 40 to join the seven-month study dubbed the Triggered Acute Risk Prevention study or TARP. Three sites are involved in the trial including Royal North Shore Hospital, North Shore Private and Westmead Hospitals.

Participants must have at least two risk factors for heart disease – such as high cholesterol, blood pressure, smoking or diabetes – or known heart disease.

“If you’ve just had an argument or know you’re heading into a big meal, the app helps you act,” says Geoffrey.

“You log the trigger, like anger or a heavy meal, and it guides you through what to do.

“Despite all the advances in understanding about risk factors like high blood pressure and high cholesterol, and the treatments, heart attacks remain a leading cause of death,” he said.

For further information on how to take part in this study, please email your closest site: For Royal North Shore and North Shore Private: Cheryl.Macadam@health.nsw.gov.au or Anjani.Meka@health.nsw.gov.au for Westmead Hospital.

The study has been approved through HREC 2024/ETH02331.

31 October 2025
New report identifies key health challenges

The latest global health check has confirmed heart disease remains the world’s biggest killer.

The concerning trend was identified through the Global Burden of Disease study which analysed health challenges and the leading cause of death in Australia and across the world. The study looked at data over more than three decades from 1990 to 2023.

Kolling Institute researcher and Royal North Shore Hospital senior scientist Dr Anastasia Mihailidou said the research serves as an alarm clock to alert us to the leading health issues, and to encourage us to reduce their impact.

In Australia, life expectancy has increased by seven years to an average of 84 years. This means the life expectancy for women is now 86 years, compared to 82 years for men.

“The data from the research will be helpful as an older life expectancy will require communities and health systems to adjust to the growing demand for healthcare,” said Dr Mihailidou.

“While we are living longer, the leading cause of death in Australia and globally remains ischemic heart disease.

“This is a disappointing trend, but a timely reminder to do what we can to reduce the disease, to consistently monitor blood pressure and to regularly undergo heart health checks.”

The study found the second leading cause of death in Australia is Alzheimer’s disease, followed by lung cancer.

It also found that air pollution and heat, as well as anxiety and depression were significantly impacting our health.

“Importantly, the report provided information about how the world’s disease burden can be prevented by modifying risk factors such as high blood pressure, obesity, smoking and air pollution.

“In Australia, the leading preventable risk factor was high blood pressure, but the data now shows being overweight, smoking and a high blood sugar are the biggest issues which the community can work to overcome.

“I would still encourage the community to monitor their blood pressure, especially as they got older.

“Blood pressure is a key indicator for heart and general health.”

13 October 2025
September 2025 Kolling NEWS

Our latest Kolling Institute newsletter is out detailing the very latest updates from our expert team of researchers, including some promising progress with our bowel cancer investigators.

There’s an opportunity to join a clinical trial to minimise the impact of osteoarthritis, a new approach to reduce spinal cord injury related pain and an international award recognising 40 years of service to health and research…. and much more:

Click here to read through this edition.

23 September 2025
Awards point to world-leading cardiac care

Highlighting the talent and expertise at Royal North Shore Hospital and the Kolling Institute, a group of clinicians took out a collection of coveted awards at the Cardiac Society (CSANZ) scientific meeting.

The most prestigious research award for young investigators across Australia and New Zealand was awarded to cardiologist Dr Karan Rao.

He was presented with the Clinical Ralph Reader Prize for his valuable study of 200 TAVI patients, which used an implantable loop‑recorder to guide post‑procedural care and risk classification.

Dr Hari Sritharan received the Heart Failure Prize for PREDICT‑TAVI, a machine‑learning model that improves individualised mortality prediction after TAVI.

Dr Jonathan Ciofani was named Editorial Fellow of the Year for his leadership at Heart, Lung and Circulation, and Dr Neila Litkouhi won Best Research Poster for the DAY‑STAY TAVI study demonstrating the feasibility and safety of same‑day discharge for selected low‑risk patients after TAVI.

Head of Cardiology at Royal North Shore Hospital Professor Ravinay Bhindi said it was encouraging to see the focus on this group of emerging research leaders.

“As their research supervisor, I felt immense pride watching Karan, Hari, Jonathan and Neila receive well‑deserved recognition for their relentless dedication to cardiovascular research,” he said.

“Their work blends rigorous data collection, machine-learning analytics as well as practical innovation. It is already reshaping clinical practice and promises to drive even greater advances in patient care.”

4 September 2025
Kolling Institute Year in Review

The Kolling Institute Year in Review profiles our impressive and unique teams, and the impact of their crucial research.

Our investigators are driving world-leading research into some of the most significant health challenges, from heart and kidney disease, chronic pain and cancer, to musculoskeletal, neurological and age-related conditions.

With a large share of our researchers named amongst the top two per cent in the world, the Kolling Institute continues to build on its research success.

As you read through the Year in Review, we would like to extend our thanks to our dedicated researchers and the many wonderful donors who help us deliver real improvements to the care we receive.

Click here to check it out:

4 September 2025
Podcast offers insight into the future of healthcare

A fascinating and informative podcast has been launched showcasing groundbreaking research, innovative healthcare, and inspiring stories from across Northern Sydney.

Tomorrow’s Medicine Today is an initiative of the Northern Sydney Local Health District and the Kolling Institute, New South Wales’ oldest medical research institute.

Co-hosted by the Kolling Institute’s Academic Director Professor James Elliott and leading Royal North Shore Hospital anaesthetist Dr Matthew Doane, the series offers an insight into the impressive clinicians and researchers driving innovation and life-changing healthcare.

It’s a behind the scenes look at the latest advances in healthcare, as well as some inspiring stories from clinicians, researchers and their broader teams.

Anthony Schembri, Chief Executive of the Northern Sydney Local Health District, said the podcast offers a great opportunity to highlight our strength in research and innovation.

“Our teams are delivering truly outstanding work in healthcare and medical research,” he said.

“This podcast is a fantastic platform to share that work with our community and direct the spotlight to the people behind the breakthroughs.”

Co-host Professor James Elliott said the series demonstrates the depth of talent and discovery in Northern Sydney.

“Each year, Stanford University publishes a list of the top two per cent of researchers globally, and many of those names are my colleagues right here at the Kolling Institute and the local health district,” he said.

“That’s what inspired this podcast. It’s a chance to share details of the world-class research and healthcare here in Northern Sydney with a wider audience.”

The first episode is now available featuring Associate Professor Sarah Glastras on the future of diabetes care and prevention.

Listen here:

New episodes will be released fortnightly. You can also check them out on Spotify:

24 June 2025
Celebrating over 100 years of innovation

The inaugural Eva Kolling Research Day was staged within Royal North Shore Hospital, providing the perfect chance to celebrate the vision and generosity of a true pioneer.

Established in 1920, the Kolling Institute is the oldest medical research institute in New South Wales. It has been at the forefront of cutting-edge research for more than a hundred years, with its founding director Dr W. Wilson Ingram opening the first clinic for diabetes treatment in Australia.

In 1931, a new two-storey building was officially opened and named the Kolling Institute of Medical Research after businessman Charles Kolling. His widow Eva was a strong supporter of research and made a substantial donation towards the development of the new building.

The Kolling Institute’s iconic photo features Eva laying a foundation stone.

Her vision and the long-standing impact of the Kolling were highlighted at the inaugural research day by Royal North Shore Hospital honorary archivist Catherine Storey OAM, who shared insights into the Kolling’s remarkable journey.

The institute’s Academic Director Professor James Elliott said the event offered the chance for researchers to engage with visitors, to learn more about the health challenges facing the community, and to share details of their current research.

“A key part of our research success will depend on the strength of our community ties, including community driven clinical trials and broad community involvement,” he said.

“I would also like to thank the NORTH Foundation for their unrelenting support, and for raising awareness of the dedicated and skilled clinician researchers within the Kolling Institute.”

Early-to-mid-career researchers presented a poster display, illustrating their commitment to improving health outcomes, driving new health policy, and realising global reach.

Two awards were announced on the day, including an Excellence in Clinical Translation Science gong to Temitope Esther Afolabi from the Kolling’s Lab of Ageing and Pharmacology, and an Excellence in Basic Science award to Daisy (Qinrui) Chen from the Renal Research Lab.

24 June 2025
Kolling Institute Newsletter May 2025
Check out our latest newsletter
- Researchers target sleep for muscle pain relief
- Landmark clinical trial to improve lung cancer treatment
- Pioneering Muscle Map project receives funding support
- Travel awards for emerging research leaders
- And much more:
Click here:
23 May 2025
Beryl and Jack Jacobs Travel Awards offer crucial international opportunities

Five emerging researchers will have the chance to develop their skills and raise the international profile of the Kolling Institute thanks to generous funding from the Skipper Jacobs Charitable Trust.

Academic Director Professor James Elliott said a total of $40,000 will be shared by the early-to-mid career researchers to increase their research impact and strengthen their collaborations.

Pablo Cruz-Granados: travelling to Spain

Pablo, a PhD candidate within the Kolling’s Menière’s Disease Neuroscience Lab, will complete a three-month stay with the Otology and Neurotology group at the University of Granada.

Pablo said I would like to thank the Skipper Jacobs Charitable Trust for this amazing opportunity.

“During my time, I will be investigating the clinical phenotypes of Ménière’s Disease to gain a better understanding of its presentation in different populations,” he said.

“I will be expanding my skill set by learning advanced bioinformatic tools to analyse structural variants in DNA which could identify mechanisms underlying the disease.

“I’m excited to accept the Beryl and Jack Jacobs Travel Award and truly appreciate the generous support. It will be incredibly valuable for my research and upcoming travel.”

Dr Kenji Fujita: travelling to Denmark and Japan

Kenji, a postdoctoral research fellow in the Departments of Clinical Pharmacology and Aged Care has helped develop a real-time calculation system to measure frailty in older hospitalised adults.

During his trip, he will deliver a keynote address at the International Pharmaceutical Federation conference in Copenhagen on innovative approaches to reduce the inappropriate use of medications in older adults.

He will also meet with research partners in Japan to advance their collaborative project analysing medication data from millions of older adults across community pharmacies in Japan.

Kenji said he was truly honoured to receive the award.

“This international travel will enhance my academic leadership profile, while strengthening cross-institutional partnerships and promoting the Kolling Institute’s innovative translational research globally,” he said.

Dr Noriko Sato: travelling to Washington, USA and Wakayama, Japan

Noriko is a research fellow within the Kolling who specialises in frailty research in older patients using data from six hospitals in NSW.

She will present the frailty study at the International Society for Pharmacoepidemiology conference in Washington and chair an international symposium at the Japanese Society of Social Pharmacy.

Noriko said I am very pleased to have received this award and excited about the chance to present our study at the largest and most prestigious pharmacoepidemiology conference.

“This travel grant will broaden my expertise, strengthen international collaborations and extend the impact of our Kolling research using data to improve the use of medications in clinical practice,” she said.

Kate Bryce: travelling to North Carolina and Florida, USA

Kate, a PhD student with the Osteoarthritis Clinical Research Group at Kolling, investigates the use of digital technologies to encourage behaviour change in the treatment of osteoarthritis.

Kate will attend the 2026 Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI) World Congress in the USA, where she will meet with experts in behaviour change and implementation science, including collaborators from Duke University, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Wake Forest University.

Kate says their expertise will allow us to enhance the broader rollout of the ATLAS clinician eLearning platform for osteoarthritis and a mobile app for knee osteoarthritis named OA Coach.

“Visiting their universities and learning from their work will help refine digital interventions to support clinician and patient behaviour change more effectively, and I’m grateful to have received this travel award.”

Bimbi Gray: travelling to Florida and North Carolina, USA

Bimbi, a PhD candidate also with the Osteoarthritis Clinical Research Group, will attend the 2026 OARSI World Congress and deliver a presentation on the ATLAS program.

The trip will strengthen partnerships with leaders at the Thurston Arthritis Research Centre in North Carolina and the Arthritis Foundation’s Osteoarthritis Action Alliance. These collaborations will speed the implementation of ATLAS with insights to refine and scale the program for broader adoption.

Bimbi said she was thrilled to receive the travel award.

“As an early-career researcher, this experience will bolster my expertise in knowledge translation, implementation science and international collaboration, while also boosting the reputation of our research at the Kolling Institute,” she said.

Professor Elliott thanked the Skipper family for their generous backing of the program, and the NORTH Foundation for their ongoing support.

12 May 2025

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