Griffin Swann Scholarship supports early-career researcher success
Jacqueline Noonan’s love of science and innovation has led her to contribute to developing more effective treatments for those with Alzheimer’s disease.
With a strong passion for neuroscience, Jacqueline is currently completing her PhD investigating dysfunctional connectivity in cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
Jacqueline is working in the Bionics Institute’s Cognitive Therapeutics team and says she hopes to become a Research Fellow and progress to the next stage of her career.
‘I’ve got so many questions, and I hope to be a part of finding those answers – for myself and for others,’ she says.
For her PhD, Jacqueline is analysing data from the Bionics Institute’s TRAM trial, which is exploring transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) of the brain as a way of improving memory in those with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s.
TMS is a safe and painless electrical stimulation technique, which uses magnetic pulses to alter brain activity.
Under the guidance of Professor Kate Hoy, Jacqueline’s sub-study examines brain connectivity in individuals with mild cognitive impairment and healthy older adults to further explore cognitive decline.
Jacqueline says that the expertise of researchers and engineers at the Bionics Institute have developed her knowledge and set her up for professional success.
I’ve been very fortunate and impressed by a lot of the people that I’ve been working with, particularly Kate. I think she’s incredible. Jacqueline Noonan PhD student
To help support her during her studies, Jacqueline received the inaugural Griffin Swann PhD Scholarship – awarded to a young researcher interested in improving the lives of those with Alzheimer’s.
For Bionics Institute supporters Peter Griffin AM and Terry Swann, the decision to set up a scholarship fund to support a PhD student over 4 years was very straightforward.
‘We see our role as assisting research institutes to fund bright young people to advance knowledge into a range of problems still facing society today,’ Peter explains.
Jacqueline is determined to continue research that aims to help slow or even prevent cognitive decline in individuals with Alzheimer’s, and the scholarship plays a significant part in this.
‘Improving the quality of life of those with Alzheimer’s is something I’m passionate about – giving hope to both patients and their families.’
I’m so grateful for the support of Terry Swann and Peter Griffin. Their scholarship means that I can continue to work towards that goal. Jacqueline Noonan PhD student
