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Queensland Cardiovascular Research Network (QCVRN)

Heart research

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Queensland Cardiovascular Research Network (QCVRN)

Providing a framework to strengthen cardiovascular research in Queensland

Launched by the Governor of Queensland in November 2015, the Queensland Cardiovascular Research Network (QCVRN) provides a framework to strengthen cardiovascular research in Queensland, including:

  • fostering multi-disciplinary collaborations
  • attracting new funding for Queensland cardiovascular research
  • building research capacity
  • becoming a combined voice for cardiovascular research in Queensland and ensuring the potential benefits generated from the research are maximised.

Becoming a member

Members of the QCVRN share the vision of fostering a visionary, vital and connected cardiovascular research community in Queensland. Membership to the QCVRN is free.

Become part of this group and enjoy the following benefits:

  • Eligibility to apply for QCVRN initiatives and support schemes
  • Multi-disciplinary collaborations and networking opportunities
  • Invitation to workshops, webinars and events run by the QCVRN
  • Contribute to QCVRN advocacy and inform our activity to strengthen cardiovascular research capacity
  • Access to resources and tools developed by the QCVRN
  • Recognition as a QCVRN member to support professional development

Join the network

For more information, email the QCVRN team.

Queensland Cardiovascular Research Network Logo

Executive Steering Committee

The executive steering committee, chaired independently by Associate Professor Jonathon Fanning and Dr. Meegan Walker, includes representatives from the Heart Foundation, Queensland Health, and various research organisations. Its purpose is to offer strategic direction and leadership to the QCVRN.

  • Associate Professor Jonathon Fanning (Co-chair), University of Queensland
  • Dr Meegan Walker (Co-chair), University of the Sunshine Coast
  • Professor Zhiyong Li, Queensland University of Technology
  • Associate Professor Jason Peart, Griffith University
  • Associate Professor Joseph Moxon, James Cook University
  • Dr Saman Khalesi, Central Queensland University
  • Mrs Sheree Hughes, Heart Foundation
  • Dr Melissa Reichelt, University of Queensland
  • Professor Julie Redfern, Bond University
  • Professor Hang Ta, Griffith University
  • Mrs Melissa Hagan, Queensland Government
  • Dr Edward Bliss, University of Southern Queensland

Current Emerging Leaders Sub-Committee members

Sitting under the Executive Steering Committee is the QCVRN Emerging Leaders Sub-Committee (ELC) (established in 2024). This Committee will represent the interests of the Early-Mid Career Researchers (EMCRs) of the QCVRN. The ELC will develop, drive, and facilitate events and opportunities for EMCRs of the QCVRN and provide advice to the Executive Steering Committee on these initiatives and any other EMCR related issues. In particular, the Committee will guide the program of EMCR targeted capability and capacity building activities and initiatives. Members of this Sub-Committee are EMCRs of the QCVRN (with the exception of A/Prof Jason Peart). Opportunities to join this Committee are available annually, advertised via this website and by email.

  • A/Prof Jason Peart (Executive Co-chair), Griffith University
  • Dr Nchatatso Obonyo (EMCR Co-chair), University of Queensland
  • Dr Danielle Kamato, Griffith University
  • Mr Krist Feka, University of the Sunshine Coast
  • Dr Yuanzhao Cao, University of Queensland
  • Dr Antony McNamee, Griffith University
  • Dr Gursharan Singh, Queensland University of Technology
  • Dr Jennifer Dermer, University of the Sunshine Coast
  • Dr Andrew Stephens, Queensland University of Technology
  • Dr Sandra Parker, University of Queensland

QCVRN initiatives

For more information about these QCVRN initiatives, please contact the QCVRN at [email protected].

This is a Special interest group bringing together those with an interest in research regarding secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease (e.g. enhancing the effectiveness, quality, and accessibility of cardiac and/or heart failure programs and/or long-term self-management). We hope to work together to build capacity and collaboration between Queensland-based researchers and policymakers & clinicians to develop a strategic research agenda and support one-another in achieving research goals.

  • Funding status: Closed
  • Applications open: July 2026
  • Applications close: September 2026

The QCVRN PhD scholarship scheme, which includes three scholarships in the fields of Biomedical, Clinical, and Public Health Research, has provided significant opportunities for the next generation of cardiovascular researchers. The three inaugural QCVRN PhD Top-Up Scholarships are awarded to students at any stage of their PhD candidature, providing $5000 on top of their university scholarship.

  • Funding status: Closed
  • Applications open: February 2026
  • Applications close: March 2026

The QCVRN Graphics support scheme assists QCVRN members with graphics design to improve visual impact of research findings and aid in science communication. Each eligible member can receive a maximum of $200 per funding round. We provide 20 schemes p.a to support a professional graphics artist to assist with infographics, illustrations, figures, graphical representations and images for grants, manuscripts, or presentations.

We provide CVRN members with discipline-relevant knowledge and upskilling opportunities throughout the year. By partnering with science and industry experts, we deliver regular webinars on member-defined topics to support professional development.

Connect with us

Follow us on LinkedIn to stay up to date with our grants, events and capacity building opportunities.

Annual Research Showcase and Networking Event

The QCVRN Research and Networking Showcases promote the impactful research of cardiovascular researchers and students from Queensland institutions. These annual events provide opportunities for multidisciplinary visibility and research communication across our network and among key opinion leaders.

In October 2025, we celebrated a decade of collaboration and innovation in cardiovascular research in Queensland with our 10-Year Anniversary Gala Dinner and Research Showcase.

Award winners

  • Translational award – Dr Andrew Goodman
  • Basic Science award - Dr Avishka Wickramarachchi
  • Most Outstanding EMCR Oral Presentation award - Dr Avishka Wickramarachchi, Dr Andrew Goodman (Runner-up)
  • Most Outstanding PhD Oral Presentation award - Mr Prashant Chand, Mr Krist Feka (Runner-up)
  • Most Outstanding PhD Poster Presentation award - Ms Saniya Rodrigues, Mr Mathew Muyinda (Runner-up)
  • People’s Choice Award – Dr Yanni Lee

Keep an eye on this page to register for our 2026 showcase.

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Last updated07 January 2026

Last reviewed14 March 2024