At Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, a new generation of researchers is
shaping the future of patient care in Western Australia. These passionate
PhD students bring fresh perspectives, blending their expertise with cuttingedge technologies to improve treatments and outcomes.

Their mentor, Associate Professor Pejman Farzad, is inspired by their dedication:

I tell my students: If I ever need treatment, I want it from someone I trust—like you. Strive to be the best, so every patient wants you as their doctor.”

- Associate Professor Pejman Farzad

Pejman sees firsthand how young researchers bring skills that were once unheard of in medical physics, such as AI and machine learning techniques that are transforming clinical practice by helping clinicians improve efficiency and precision.

One of those young researchers is Juliet Li, a PhD student in the Radiation Oncology Department. Her work focuses on improving liver cancer treatments to provide better outcomes for patients.

In society, everyone plays a role. I chose healthcare because I want my work to directly improve people’s lives.”

- Juliet Li, PhD Student

While the passion is strong, the challenge of keeping WA’s brightest minds is real. Without proper support, talented young researchers often leave for opportunities in Sydney, Melbourne, or overseas.

For Ashlesha Gill, moving from India in 2020 wasn’t just about earning a PhD—it was about making a real impact. Drawn by the opportunity to apply her physics expertise to medicine, she is working on ways to improve how radiation therapy is delivered to tumours with unpredictable movements.

My research aims to better predict and adjust for these movements, ensuring safer, more effective therapy for patients.”

- Ashlesha Gill, PhD Student

While her research has significant potential, Ashlesha faces the same financial challenges as many PhD students.

“The PhD stipend just covers the basics. Receiving support from the Foundation made a real difference.”

Pejman knows that even small contributions go a long way in shaping
the future of healthcare. Associate Professor Pejman Farzad shares
how “funding helps students focus on their research instead of worrying about making ends meet. Even modest financial support allows them to stay in WA and continue their important work.”

The impact extends beyond individual researchers.

Hospitals with strong research programs tend to have better patient outcomes. Our work isn’t just
theoretical—we are solving real problems
clinicians face every day.”

- Associate Professor Pejman Farzad

Looking ahead, Pejman is optimistic.

If we invest in these students today,
they will become WA’s future
researchers and clinicians, ensuring the best
possible care for generations to come.”

- Associate Professor Pejman Farzad

With the support of our generous community, bright minds like Juliet
and Ashlesha can continue pushing the boundaries of medical research—right here in WA.