Innovation doesn't always start with a breakthrough. Often, it begins with a new way of thinking.
Join a panel of current students and early-career researchers as they share how they've tackled health challenges using fresh approaches and explore what it really means to think differently in practice. Through their experiences, they'll discuss the strategies, mindsets, and lessons that helped them innovate, moving beyond generic advice to focus on practical, relevant, and actionable approaches that can be applied in real-world settings.
Following the panel, you'll have the opportunity to join small-group discussions and participate in focused Q&A sessions, giving you the chance to explore these ideas in more depth, ask questions, and learn from your peers. You'll leave with practical insights and greater confidence in how to apply innovative thinking to your own work, overcome challenges, and bring future ideas to life.
Designed for students, graduate researchers, and recent graduates, this session is ideal for anyone looking to build their innovation skills and apply new ways of thinking to real-world health challenges.
Senior Scientist, ZiP Diagnostics
George Taiaroa is an Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Melbourne and Senior Scientist at an Australian diagnostics company. He leads global health research related to infectious diseases. Supported by Australia's NHMRC, this includes field work in Australia, Africa, and the Pacific Islands.
PhD Candidate, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute
Nicolai Jung is a PhD researcher at the University of Melbourne and the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, utilizing reverse vaccinology and structural biology to develop novel malaria biologics. Passionate about bridging the gap between science and business, Nicolai is the Co-Founder and Co-Managing Director of Nucleate Australia, where he drives biotechnology entrepreneurship, fosters industry collaboration, and supports students translating their academic research into the market.
Doctor of Physiotherapy student, University of Melbourne
Belle is a final-year student in the Doctor of Physiotherapy course at the University of Melbourne. She is driven by supporting patients in the many facets of recovery to assist with the restoration of their independence and ultimately improve their quality of life. Belle has recently been involved in the development of a healthcare initiative exploring new strategies to improve the confidence, clinical decision-making and transition to practice of early-career physiotherapists.
