Research To Reduce Cognitive Decline And Optimise Ageing Well
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$753,300.00
Summary
My research program will deliver research outcomes that will improve the quality of life for older Australians, increase the life-span spent in productivity (as opposed to dependency) and reduce health-care costs. I will conduct interventions to improve the skill of older drivers so they can remain independent, and interventions to reduce cognitive decline and risk of dementia. My work will provide information and interventions for middle-aged and older adults, enabling them to age well.
Molecular Mediators, Epigenetic Modulators And Therapeutic Targets For Cognitive Disorders
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$763,845.00
Summary
Brain disorders constitute an enormous, and growing, burden. My research investigates how genes and environment combine to cause disorders of cognition, including dementia, schizophrenia and autism. The research will provide new insights into these disorders, at the level of molecules, cells and behaviour. I will explore how genetic and environmental factors interact, with a focus on mental activity, physical exercise and stress, which affect a range of neurological and psychiatric disorders.
I am a clinical psychologist by training, with 15 years experience in providing psychological treatment for patients with chronic illness, particularly rheumatoid arthritis and chronic pain. My research interest is primarily involved with understanding th
Promoting Healthy Ageing Of Brain And Mind Through Epidemiology And Intervention Research
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$664,584.00
Summary
This project focuses on identifying ways that individuals and societies can promote healthy ageing to prevent dementia and mental health problems in later life. Large-scale longitudinal studies and intervention studies will be evaluated to identify factors that lead to healthy and unhealthy ageing.
An inability to resist a temptation or repeated failures of self-regulation can lead to 'impulsive' and 'compulsive' behaviours that relate to a host of personal and social problems (eg., excessive eating, gambling, and substance use). Despite this, very little research has studied the neural and psychological underpinnings of these behaviours. My research will take advantage of recent innovations and approaches to fill this void and have implications for diagnosis and treatment.
Mass Media And Tobacco Policies To Reduce Smoking Prevalence
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$727,685.00
Summary
Professor Wakefield's research program will investigate the impact of mass media campaigns and tobacco control policies on reducing population smoking prevalence. Her research will assess the effects of mass media campaigns, especially in low socioeconomic groups, and in low to middle income countries; the effects of plain cigarette packaging on the sensory experience of smoking; and the impact of advanced policies on tobacco marketing and cigarette pack labelling on smoking attitudes and behavi ....Professor Wakefield's research program will investigate the impact of mass media campaigns and tobacco control policies on reducing population smoking prevalence. Her research will assess the effects of mass media campaigns, especially in low socioeconomic groups, and in low to middle income countries; the effects of plain cigarette packaging on the sensory experience of smoking; and the impact of advanced policies on tobacco marketing and cigarette pack labelling on smoking attitudes and behaviour.Read moreRead less
Ascending Neural Networks And Behavioural State Control
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$727,758.00
Summary
Our research aims to describe and understand newly identified nerve pathways or 'networks' in brain that control physiological homeostasis or balance and complex behaviours, including levels of arousal and motivation, sleep/wake patterns, learning and memory, and emotions such as fear and anxiety