Launceston-born PhD candidate Ella Matson will explore innovative new methods to deliver drugs directly to the brain in stroke recovery, thanks to a newly established scholarship.
Ella is the inaugural recipient of the Professor Richard Scolyer AO Research Innovation HDR Scholarship, launched last year.
Named in honour of alumnus Professor Richard Scolyer AO - renowned for his groundbreaking work in melanoma research and his courageous personal journey through brain cancer - the scholarship celebrates innovation, dedication and excellence in medical research.
Ella will begin her doctoral studies at the University's Tasmanian School of Medicine this year, where her aim is to simplify and improve drug delivery to the brain for stroke survivors.
"Stroke is a devastating thing to have happen to you," Ella said.
Ella graduated from the University's Tasmanian School of Medicine in 2025 with a Bachelor of Medical Research with First Class Honours. She was also awarded the University Medal in recognition of her academic excellence.
As part of her PhD, Ella is seeking normalised, less invasive ways to ensure therapeutic drugs reach the damaged brain regions, ultimately enhancing recovery outcomes for patients.
"Currently, the only way we treat ischaemic stroke is to remove the blood clot," Ella said.
"There are no other drugs that we can give stroke patients to help them recover, primarily because it is difficult to deliver drugs specifically to the damaged area of the brain.
"During my PhD, I aim to utilise ultrasound to develop a better way to deliver drugs directly and more efficiently to the damaged brain tissue.
"If we can do this, we might be able to help people recover better from a stroke."
The new scholarship provides $10,000 annually for the duration of a Higher Degree by Research program, dedicated to supporting top-up HDR candidates in the health fields.
Ella said the scholarship is transformative.
"The scholarship will mean I can focus on my research and devote more time to bringing about better outcomes for people," she said.
