AS A MULTIDISCIPLINARY TRANSLATIONAL ACADEMIC CENTRE, WE CARRY OUT WORLDCLASS RESEARCH AND TEACHING TO HELP MAKE A DIFFERENCE TO THE LIVES OF PEOPLE SUFFERING SERIOUS MENTAL ILLNESSES.
The Department of Psychiatry sits within the Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University. The Department of Psychiatry, CCS has three main sites for academic mental health activities, which are conducted at Alfred Health, Peninsula Health and Cabrini Health.
As a multidisciplinary translational academic centre, we carry out world-class research and teaching to help make a difference to the lives of people suffering serious mental illnesses. Our organisation has an operational budget which finances teaching, transformative research and innovative clinical trials. The Head of this Department of Psychiatry is Professor Jayashri Kulkarni, and the Department Manager is Mr Anthony de Castella. Professor Richard Newton is the Head of Academic activities in Peninsula and Prof Kulkarni leads the Cabrini Psychiatry academics.
The department coordinates and delivers mental health teaching into the Medicine curriculum and coordinates placements of medical students with affiliated hospitals across Victoria. The department also enrols Honours and HDR students and provides supervision from senior research academics located at our clinical research and academic sites. Excellent medical student teaching and research are conducted at the Peninsula and Cabrini sites also, with a focus on Eating Disorders at Peninsula and service delivery for women with mental illness at Cabrini.
The department coordinates and delivers mental health teaching
into the Medicine curriculum and coordinates placements of medical students with affiliated hospitals across Victoria. The department also enrols honours and HDR students and provides supervision by staff located at our clinical research and academic centre based on St Kilda Road in the heart of Melbourne.
The CCS Department of Psychiatry contains Australia’s leading research centre specifically dedicated to women’s mental health- HER Centre Australia. HER Centre Australia is a centre that has its hub at Alfred Health, but many ‘spokes’ of research and education in women’s mental health throughout the nation. Academics at HER Centre Australia conduct innovative research studies, pioneering clinical trials and projects with the mission to improve mental illnesses suffered by women across their lifespan.
The HER Centre Australia team adopts a bio-psycho-social, holistic model to understand more about women’s mental health and develop
innovative treatments. Our core team consists of our Director, Deputy Director, Research Manager, Research Fellows, Clinical Research Assistants and postgraduate students. Overall, our team comprises a multidisciplinary team of over 100 staff from medicine, nursing, psychology, allied health, science and health information services.
Women’s Mental Health research, conducted by HER Centre Australia has a focus on innovative, worldclass clinical trials and projects that aim to make a transformative difference to the lives of women experiencing severe mental illness. We are dedicated to finding effective methods of applying the critical insights gained from our studies in the clinical environment to address often neglected and under-researched areas of women’s mental health.
Our goal is to improve the lives of people suffering with serious mental health illnesses such as schizophrenia, eating disorders, traumarelated disorders, major depression and anxiety.
We have many national and international collaborative partners in the lived experience community, advocacy organisations, biotechnology companies and global academic researchers from a diverse range of fields. Our goal is to improve the lives of people suffering with serious mental health illnesses such as schizophrenia, eating disorders, trauma-related disorders, major depression and anxiety. These severe mental illnesses have a devastating impact on the quality of a sufferer’s life, and impose a huge cost on families and on the wider community.
Research at our organisation is incredibly diverse and we are widely recognised for our research discoveries that are respected by international centres, clinicians, women with lived
experience of mental ill health and medical professionals. Our projects encompass experimental neuroscience studies which are recognised internationally for the breakthrough insights they provide into brain structure and function, in health and illness. Our research is funded by independent competitive grants and a range of philanthropic funding organisations. Although these grants have enabled us to conduct cutting-edge research studies or clinical trials, these contributions only cover a portion of our research. Therefore, we also rely on fundraising events to ensure we can continue to undertake valuable and innovative research in our pursuit of improving the outcomes and quality of life of people living with mental illness.
This year, HER Centre Australia continued to grow and achieve promising results with its ongoing clinical trials, research programs, higher degree completions and publications. We have celebrated a year of incredible milestones; including the launch of the revolutionary Li Transformative Hub for Eating Disorders (Li-THRED) and ongoing success in our many clinical trials and treatments utilising Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. HER Centre Australia also hosted the Inaugural Asia Pacific Conference for Women’s Mental Health which reignited the health industry and fostered a collaborative platform for knowledge sharing in women’s mental health through case studies,
lived experience, cutting-edge research and clinical translation.
Whilst it will be challenging to adequately cover the full breadth of activities performed by the CCS Department of Psychiatry and HER Centre Australia in an annual report, we hope that this report can provide insight into the work of the dedicated and inspirational people involved with our organisation.
To make a transformative difference to the lives of people with mental illness.
Mission
To develop new treatments, new understandings and new services for mental illness.
Our Philosophy
To conduct world class psychiatric research with respect, equality and understanding.
Head: Professor Jayashri Kulkarni (AM)
Alfred Health (Alfred Brain)
Monash Alfred Psychiatry
research Centre (MAPrc)
Deputy:
Prof. Jayashri Kulkarni (AM)
Deputy Director:
Dr Leo Chen
Manager:
Mr Anthony de Castella
Women’s Mental Health
Outpatient Clinic
Prof Jayashri Kulkarni (AM)
Clinic Coordinator:
Ms Marie Iglesias
Therapeutic Trials Team
Head: Dr Leo Chen
Team Manager:
Ms Emmy Gavrillidis
AMAH Service Evaluation Research
Registrar Training Director:
Dr Leo Chen
Training Coordinator:
Ms Laurina Van Tilburg
HER Centre Australia
Director:
Prof. Jayashri Kulkarni (AM)
Deputy Director:
Assoc. Prof. Caroline Gurvich
Manager:
Mr Anthony de Castella
Women’s Mental Health
Head:
Prof. Jayashri Kulkarni (AM)
Team Manager: Dr Eveline Mu
Li-THRED (Li Transformative Hub for Research in Eating Disorders)
Prof. Jayashri Kulkarni (AM)
Team Manager: Dr Eva Gregertsen
Cognition & Hormones
Assoc. Prof. Caroline Gurvich
Clinical TMS Research Unit
Women’s Mental Health
Dr Leo Chen
Team Manager:
Dr Elizabeth Thomas
University
Psychiatry Central Clinical School (AM) Manager: Mr Anthony de Castella
Cabrini Health
Lisa Thurin Women’s Health Centre
Head Cabrini WMH: Prof. Jayashri Kulkarni (AM)
Peninsula Health
Peninsula Mental Health Research Director: Prof. Richard Newton
Platform — Biostatistics: Qi Li
Platform — Marketing & Communications: Gill McPhee
Platform — Administrative Services: Anthony de Castella, Robyn Johnston, Marie Iglesias, Anne Crawford, Adoria Li
Teaching & Education
MD Teaching
HDR Candidates
Short Courses
The Central Clinical School, Department of Psychiatry, through our close clinical partners, is at the forefront of cutting-edge translational clinical research, medical student teaching, higher degree research, and delivery of innovative short courses and educational events in mental health.
In our Department of Psychiatry, we have over 150 staff and students, and our research programs cover all major sub-specialty fields of psychiatry across the lifespan with a focus on developing and implementing new and innovative treatments.
Our clinical research groups are based at Alfred Health, Peninsula Health, and Cabrini Hospital. We conduct world-class clinical research aimed at developing new treatments and new understanding of mental illnesses, with direct, effective, and immediate applications for people across the life spectrum. Within the CCS Department of Psychiatry, is the Monash University HER Centre Australia – a women’s mental health centre launched in October 2022. HER stands for Health, Education and Research into women’s mental health. As part of HER Centre Australia, in June 2023, we launched the Li Family Transformative Hub for Research into Eating Disorders (Li-THRED). Details about the work done within HER Centre Australia and Li-THRED are provided within this report.
Monash University student teaching is a major focus of the CCS Department of Psychiatry. In conjunction with our sister department of Psychiatry in the
School for Clinical Sciences, we are responsible for the development and delivery of the Psychiatry curriculum for Monash Medical Students across all Monash University clinical sites in Victoria and Malaysia. Our Department provides the necessary clinical lectures, tutorials, and clinical placement experience that future doctors require. We are very grateful to the many clinical staff who are Affiliates and Associates of our Department in Alfred, Peninsula and Cabrini Health and provide excellent Medical Student teaching.
health, and we take great pride in our high PhD completion record.
We also run online and in person short courses in Women’s Mental Health and brain stimulation, as well as a range of educational workshops and events for students, clinicians, and the public.
The CCS Department of Psychiatry is a busy academic department that has a unique focus on women’s mental health research and innovative teaching programmes. I hope you enjoy reading our Annual Report for 2023.
2023 was a highly successful year for CCS Psychiatry Department Medical teaching with excellent student results and feedback.
Of course, we are also involved in other student teaching at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Our student supervisors continue to identify opportunities to improve students’ learning experience and we have created a warm, interactive space where students can be challenged, learn, and discover. In 2023, our large PhD programme involved postgraduate research in a wide variety of aspects of mental
Professor Jayashri Kulkarni AM Head, Department of Psychiatry
Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences
Monash University
2023 marked my 30th year working with Professor Kulkarni, initially as her research nurse, and for the last 24 years as her research manager. From humble beginnings at the Dandenong Area Mental Health Service in 1994, to today’s thriving and ever evolving dynamic research centre’s – HER Centre Australia and MAPrc, as well as the Department of Psychiatry (CCS). Now located in modern, well equipped premises in St Kilda Rd Melbourne, it has been a privilege and honour to work with so many (over 500) inspiring and dedicated individual staff and students since 1994, who have all come from different backgrounds, and made different contributions, but who all share our burning passion to improve the lives and outcomes of people living with serious mental illnesses.
The role of the manager of a research centre is primarily to provide the infrastructure and support required to allow the research to be conducted and the centre to operate efficiently in an environment where all personnel feel supported and valued. Of course, it takes a team of administration and support staff and we are incredibly fortunate to have wonderful people in key roles of reception, administration assistance, executive assistant to the Director, and medical student teaching administration. We also have senior researchers who enthusiastically take on leadership roles and complete a range of HR, finance and research administration.
2023 was another year of challenges and achievements. Finances in research are the lifeblood of project progress and new sources of revenue are continually required to maintain staffing levels and to keep projects moving forward. We are eternally grateful to the many individuals who make donations to our Centre, small and large. Without their support, the research would not occur. Larger philanthropic gifts are not common but can make a huge difference! We are immensely grateful to the Li family for giving us the opportunity to launch
are one of the most serious and devastating mental illnesses and we are excited and driven to ensure the Li-THRED makes a real impact. We also received a number of competitive research grants that are a testament to the quality of researchers we have in our Centre.
If you do not change direction, you may end up where you are heading
– Lao Tzu
a new program of research and clinical trials in eating disorders – the Li-THRED (Transformative Hub for Research in Eating Disorders). Their gift was supplemented by a generous donation from the wonderful One in Five Foundation who are supporting our Research Fellow in women’s mental health, particularly in Eating Disorders. Further support of the LiTHRED program was received from the Kinsella-Connelly Foundation and from Ms Sherry Li. Eating Disorders
Dissemination is a key aspect of our charter. In September 2023 we staged the inaugural Asia Pacific Conference on Women’s Mental Health. Our dynamic events and communications manager led the team in putting together a wonderful program over two days at the Langham Hotel, and the whole Centre worked tirelessly in the lead up and on the day to ensure the conference was a huge success. A highlight for me was the 6 delegates we were able to sponsor to attend the conference from low and middle income countries, thanks to a generous donation from the Cubit Family Foundation.
All in all, 2023 was a very successful year for our Centre’s and Department, which were the result of sustained, passionate and focussed hard work across our entire team. Onward and Upwards!
Anthony
de Castella Research and Business Manager
Monash Alfred Psychiatry research centre (MAPrc)
Team Head:
Professor Jayashri Kulkarni
Senior Lecturer:
A/Prof Rob Selzer
Senior Lecturer:
Dr Leo Chen
Clinical Site Coordinator:
Dr Anna Cunningham
Clinical Site Coordinator: Dr Anusha Jayasekera
Clinical Administrator: Anne Crawford
Our team’s role consists of coordinating the year 4C psychiatry teaching program at Alfred Health and, at a faculty level, curriculum review and development.
At Alfred Health, our students gain a wide-ranging experience in Psychiatry through placement at a range of Alfred Health’s Psychiatric services. Every student has the opportunity to participate in clinical placements at the following services:
• Inpatient units at the Alfred Hospital
• Alfred Health Community Mental Health Service clinics
• Malvern Private Hospital’s Drug Rehabilitation Program
• Alfred’s Health’s Aged Psychiatry Department at Caufield Hospital
• Alfred Health’s CATT and Emergency Psychiatry Service
• Headspace Moorabbin
• Alfred Health Consultation Liaison and Drug and Alcohol services.
As well as clinical experience, our teaching program includes a formal tutorial program, which utilises the extensive knowledge and teaching expertise of senior academics within Alfred Psychiatry. The teaching team continues to identify opportunities to improve students’ learning experience. Based on positive student feedback and assessment, these initiatives have outstanding results in achieving course satisfaction and improving quality of learning.
MED5101
Advanced Clinical Practice
Year 5D Psychiatry
Selective Team
Clinical Supervisor: Prof Jayashri Kulkarni
Administration: Marie Iglesias
MED5101
Applied Studies in Medical Research and Professional Practice Scholarly Intensive Placement (SIP)
Year 5D Psychiatry Selective Team
SIP Coordinator
Department of Psychiatry, Central Clinical School: Prof Jayashri Kulkarni
SIP Project Supervisors: A/Prof Caroline Gurvich
Dr Leo Chen
Dr Romi Goldschlager
Dr Elizabeth Thomas
Dr Eveline Mu
Dr Andris Cerins
Dr Qi Li
Dr Eva Gregertsen
Ms Emorfia Gavrilidis
Prof Jayashri Kulkarni Director of MAPrc, Head of Department
A/Prof Caroline Gurvich Head, Cognition and Hormones
Dr Leo Chen Deputy Director of MAPrc
Dr Elizabeth Thomas Post-Doctoral Researcher
Dr Eveline Mu Research Fellow
Dr Eva Gregertsen Research Fellow
Qi Li Biostatiscian
Andris Cerins Research Fellow
Psychiatry - Central
Our organisation has a long track record of producing world class research with direct clinical translation. Our goal is to conduct research aimed at developing novel treatment avenues and understandings with direct, effective, and immediate applications. Our research encompasses a range of mental illnesses, covering all ages across the lifespan. We have a multidisciplinary team of researchers with diverse methodological skills who supervise research projects in the fields of clinical psychiatry, psychology, biology and health technologies.
Our student supervisor team continues to identify opportunities to improve students’ learning experience. We strive to create a supportive, interactive and collaborative environment where students can be challenged, learn and discover.
The Monash University Bachelor of Medical Science (Honours) is a twelve-month degree programme for MBBS students and graduates. The program introduces students to research practice in a research setting with Australian and internationally recognised researchers. The students learn skills relating to data analysis and the communication of scientific ideas via oral presentations and a written thesis. The Bachelor of Medical Science (Honours) program offers candidates a range of projects across an array of research streams, matching student interests to projects respectively.
The department offers BMedSci students a broad array of research projects to choose from, and opportunities to observe clinical management in the Women’s Mental Health Clinic, a specialist clinic for women with a variety of psychiatric disorders with a strong focus on hormonal changes and other reproductive factors.
The Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Honours) at Monash University is a twelve-month prestigious program of coursework and research in science and biomedical science for high-achieving students who have completed relevant undergraduate degrees. Training in areas of research methodology will be provided in conjunction with carrying out an independent research project, working closely with a supervisor who will provide guidance and academic counselling. Completing honours demonstrates advanced research, analytical and communication skills enhancing employability outcomes, and offers a pathway to higher degree research in science.
Being a multidisciplinary research institute, we offer a broad array of research projects to choose from including clinical, psychological, biological and health technology research.
Monash University has a proud tradition of research excellence and is committed to providing the highest quality of graduate research education. The PhD program offered within the Central Clinical School at Monash University is a 3-4 years (full time) or 6-8 years part-time programme and consists of an extensive, independent research project on an agreed topic, supported by a minimum of two expert academic supervisors. Professional development activities and coursework further enhance the experience required to make an impact in academia, industry, policy, and the wider community.
The studies completed during the PhD program result in a research thesis and peer-reviewed publications, making for a valuable contribution to the current body of knowledge.
Diverse opportunities exist for clinician-scientists and researchonly scientists within the field of Psychiatry. Our team of multidisciplinary researchers will provide supervision and guidance allowing successful independent research to be undertaken.
• Trauma and psychopathology
• Mental Health across the menstrual cycle and premenstrual mood disorders
• Hormonal contraception and mood
• Perinatal Psychiatry
• Reputational Risk in Psychiatric Practice
• ADHD in women and the role of sex hormones
• Gender affirming hormone therapy- impacts on mental health and cognition
OUR APPROACH CONTINUES TO REFLECT OUR COMMITMENT TO ‘BENCH TO BEDSIDE’ RESEARCH- TRANSLATING DIRECTLY INTO EVERYDAY BENEFITS FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH MENTAL ILL HEALTH AND THEIR CARERS.
Our research has a focus on world class translational clinical trials that will make a transformative difference to people living with severe mental illness. Our projects range from neuroimaging techniques that are internationally recognised for the innovative insights they provide into brain structure and trailblazing new treatments to improve the effectiveness of unconventional medications for major mental illnesses.
Our approach continues to reflect our commitment to ‘bench to bedside’ research- translating directly into everyday benefits for individuals with mental ill health and their carers. Our clinical trials include all people from many different walks of life and across the lifespan.
Our research is funded by competitive grants, philanthropic and pharmaceutical industry support. The research we undertake is designed to improve treatments and understanding of Major Depressive Disorders, Psychosis disorders, Bipolar Affective Disorder, Complex Post Traumatic Disorder, Perimenopausal Depression, Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder and other mental illnesses. The research projects utilise a diverse range of platforms and technologies, including molecular psychiatry, biostatistics, eye tracking and sophisticated cognitive assessments.
As well as our own investigatorinitiated clinical trials, MAPrc also conducts industry sponsored clinical trials. We work with sponsors and collaborators across the globe. Our Clinics enable rapid translation of our research findings into new clinical treatments for people struggling with mental ill health.
OUR FOCUS IS CREATING INTERVENTIONS AND TREATMENTS THAT ARE TAILORED TO THE UNIQUE ASPECTS OF MENTAL ILLNESS THROUGH A WOMAN’S LIFESPAN.
HER Centre Australia is a beacon of innovation in women’s mental health, standing at the forefront of groundbreaking Health, Education and Research services. Launched in October 2022 as a formal Monash University Centre, we are dedicated to understanding and treating mental illnesses experienced by women.
Our focus is creating interventions and treatments that are tailored to the unique aspects of mental illness through a woman’s lifespan. We provide clinical services, education and workshops that interconnect with our discovery research to accelerate our vision of transforming the outcomes, functioning and quality of life of all women experiencing mental illness.
Mental illness often has many gender-specific aspects that clinical research and healthcare has not always addressed. For women, a complex interaction of biological, psychological and social factors contribute to mental illness. This means that the causes of and most effective treatments for mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, trauma disorders, self harm and addictions are different in women compared to men. Unlike any other centre nationally or internationally, HER Centre Australia is committed to specifically using these insights to develop revolutionary gender-tailored treatments and interventions.
Our research and services are undertaken via our specialist women’s
mental health clinics- our tertiary clinic based at Alfred Health and the The Lisa Thurin Women’s Health Centre, a 30-bed inpatient and outpatient women’s mental health based at Cabrini Health. These clinics enable rapid translation of innovative findings and novel treatments from our clinical trials for mental illnesses that impact women. At HER Centre, we recognise that current treatment options for women living with mental illness are severely limited, and women’s mental health problems have been underdiagnosed and in some cases, unrecognised. We are passionate about changing this situation so all women have access to safe and effective treatments.
HER Centre strives to develop awareness and understanding around how women are impacted by mental illness through our online short course in Women’s Mental Health, through our ‘in person’ conferences, public lectures, targeted presentations to community and mental health organisations and groups, as well as through our scientific publications and engagement with the media. We also regularly engage with lived experience groups to ensure we can work towards making a tangible impact in women’s lives.
Whilst awareness for mental health has made significant progress in recent years, there is still a long way to go to dismantle the stigma and increase understanding about the causes, manifestations, and treatment of mental illness. This is even more critical for women’s mental health, which has only recently been recognised as its own specialty area of psychiatry and mental health delivery.
The HER Centre Australia team adopts a bio-psycho-social, holistic model to understand more about women’s mental health and develop innovative treatments. One particular focus of our research is the role of the neuroendocrine system in mental illnesses, and specifically the role of female hormones, such as estrogen. We are conducting groundbreaking research into the use of estrogen to improve symptoms in schizophrenia and the use of selective brain estrogens in postmenopausal women. We are also exploring possible links between the oral contraceptive pill and depression.
OUR FOCUS IS CREATING INTERVENTIONS AND TREATMENTS THAT ARE TAILORED TO THE UNIQUE ASPECTS OF MENTAL ILLNESS THROUGH A WOMAN’S LIFESPAN.
40+ Papers published
Podcast episodes, TV features, documentaries, radio features
Conference delegates
New clinical trials
Clinical trial participants
Visits to our women’s Clinic
After decades of campaigning, women’s mental health is gaining recognition as a separate area of mental health. Women experience mental ill health conditions differently to men and the causes of depression, eating disorders, anxiety, PTSD, psychosis and addiction in women can vary considerably. Hence the understanding and treatments for women’s mental ill health need to be specific and tailored for women. HER Centre Australia is dedicated to understanding and treating mental illnesses experienced by women. Launched in October 2022, our focus is on creating interventions and treatments that are tailored to the unique aspects of mental illness through a woman’s lifespan.
In 2023, we accelerated our work in women’s mental health through several key events. In April 2023, we held a Federal Parliamentary Forum in Parliament House in Canberra, which was attended by senior politicians and their advisors, with several important follow up discussions that continued through the year. Our social media presence, radio, television and mainstream newsprint media presence grew remarkably over 2023, bringing important collaborations to fruition. June 2023 saw the beautiful launch of the Li Family Transformative Hub for Research into Eating Disorders (Li-THRED). This launch took place in the David Li Sound Gallery of Monash University, where we were treated to superb music from internationally renowned musicians. Li-THRED is part of HER Centre Australia and researchers in this new facility are undertaking innovative neurobiological research to treat Anorexia Nervosa. The trials are world first and involve collaboration with Harvard University, USA.
In October we held the Inaugural Asia Pacific Women’s Mental Health Conference. This highly successful conference was convened at the Langham Hotel, Melbourne and was well attended by international and national delegates and speakers. The positive feedback from attendees at the conference has been overwhelming and in particular, we have been commended for our integrated lived experience presentations.
The Lisa Thurin Women’s Health Centre is Australia’s first women’s mental health hospital. Opened in September 2021, it is part of Cabrini Health and designed plus developed by clinical researchers at HER Centre Australia. This unique hospital continues to flourish and lead the way for kind, sensitive and compassionate inpatient mental health service delivery for women. Following the model set by Cabrini, further women’s mental health services are being developed around Australia. In late 2023, a public-private hospital service for women which is run by Alfred, Ramsay & Goulburn Health
was opened. We are proud and pleased that HER Centre Australia also assisted in this development. Both services in Victoria are huge leaps forward in the goal of improving outcomes for women through specially focussed women’s mental health services.
HER Centre Australia is the leader in women’s mental health with our clinical services, training and workshops that interconnect our discovery research with clinical practice – all specially focussed on women’s needs. With our lived experience researchers and advisors, our ‘real world’ approach to clinical research for women is accelerating our vision of transforming the outcomes, functioning and quality of life for all women experiencing mental illness.
I hope you enjoy reading the report on HER Centre Australia and join us in our campaign to make women’s mental health a national priority.
Professor Jayashri Kulkarni AM
Director HER Centre Australia
HER Centre translates basic and clinical research conducted on site and from research published in peer reviewed journals to inform clinical trials of potential new treatments and interventions that are likely to make a real difference to women experiencing mental illness. All clinical trials conducted are consumer informed and approved by the Alfred Human Research and Ethics Committee. We aim to use a biopsychosocial or holistic approach where the women who participate in clinical trials are treated as collaborators not subjects. Over the last 30 years, our trials have yielded promising results that have directly influenced clinical practice by clinicians and healthcare professionals working with women experiencing mental illness.
Double-Blind Randomised Investigation of Bazedoxifene and conjugated estrogen (Duavive) for Depression in Menopausal Women
About the trial
This study aims to test the effectiveness of hormonal treatment (bazedoxifene and conjugated estrogens) in perimenopausal depression. It is using a TGA approved treatment (currently prescribed for moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms as well as osteoporosis).
Trial Objective
To compare, in a twelve-week doubleblind randomised controlled trial, the psychological and physical outcomes of women experiencing a first-onset, relapse or persistent depressive symptoms that commenced during the peri- menopausal. The purpose of this study is to investigate the use of the medication combination Bazedoxifene 20mg and conjugated estrogen 0.3mg, a hormone replacement therapy, in the treatment of depression with a first onset or relapse during the peri-menopausal phase that is still persisting. Perimenopause is the time immediately prior to menopause, which commonly occurs in women between the ages of 40-55-years. Peri-menopausal depression is a term used when symptoms of depression occur at the same time as the hormone changes occur.
A randomised double-blind placebo-controlled investigation of adjunctive memantine in the treatment of symptoms of complex trauma disorder (cPTSD).
About the trial
Despite the high prevalence, economic impost and individual suffering, biological research in cPTSD remains in its infancy. A different approach with a new treatment option is urgently needed. A way forward is to view cognitive disturbance in cPTSD as underpinning all the key symptoms including emotional instability, aggression, impulsivity, dissociation, as well memory and learning impairments. The glutamatergic system, in particular the N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA) subtype receptor, is increasingly recognised for its role in cPTSD, with recent neurobiological research linking NMDA neurotransmission dysfunction (overactivity) to cPTSD symptomatology. Memantine is a NMDA antagonist that has been used to improve cognition in Alzheimer’s disease.
Trial Objective
The Alison Project investigates the use of memantine 20mg (compared to placebo) in women with cPTSD and aims to improve symptom severity using validated and sensitive measures.
A randomised placebo-controlled trial of estradiol for the treatment of women with complex post traumatic stress disorder (cPTSD), also known as borderline personality disorder (BPD).
About the trial
Estradiol (estrogen) is an ovarian hormone that plays an important role in mood and thinking. Previous research has demonstrated that fluctuations of these hormones, or a sensitivity to such fluctuations may impact symptoms that are affected in CTD. Medications, drugs, and devices must be approved for use by the Australian Federal Government. Estradiol transdermal patch is approved for marketing by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia. It should be noted that estrogen has not been approved for use in the treatment of complex trauma disorder in Australia or other countries, and this study investigating these hormones for treatment of CTD symptoms is considered experimental.
Trial Objective
The purpose of this study is to investigate the use of ovarian hormone, estrogen, in addition to any existing treatment you may already be receiving for the symptoms of complex trauma disorder.
Bazedoxifene – A new selective estrogen receptor modulator treatment for women with schizophrenia.
About the trial
Bazedoxifene is a Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulator (SERM), which means that it can use the positive effects of estrogen (e.g. improving emotional symptoms, memory, information processing and concentration, as well as improving bone density), without having an effect on other parts of the body, such as the breast and ovaries.
Trial Objective
This research project is investigating the use of a SERM for the treatment of schizophrenia. The purpose of this project is to investigate the effects of Bazedoxifene (a new form of estrogen) as a treatment for women with schizophrenia.
A randomised double-blind interventional pilot of Zoely and Zoloft to treat Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder.
About the trial
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a common condition that causes significant distress and disruption to daily life. The treatment options for PMDD are limited, however, newer forms of combined oral contraceptive pills are becoming available and investigation of their efficacy is urgently needed. Moreover, no study to date has directly compared the efficacy of the first-line treatment options for PMDD.
Trial Objective
The proposed study aims to investigate whether nomegestrol acetate/17-beta estradiol (Zoely) or sertraline (Zoloft) is more effective in reducing symptoms of PMDD.
Mood and contraceptives: is there a relationship?
Contraceptive medications are those containing either a progestin (progesterone) or a combination of both progestin and estrogen, to inhibit female fertility. Since being created in oral pill form in the 1960s, contraceptive medication has been subject to numerous developments. More than 40 different varieties are available on today’s market, with the hope that women will be able to select an effective contraceptive with low risk of unwanted side effects. Contraceptive pills containing progestins that have been specifically developed to most closely mimic natural progesterone have been associated with reductions in physical side effects such as water retention, bloating, cramping and acne.
Previous experience has shown that whilst contraceptive medication is highly efficient in preventing pregnancy and is a reliable, convenient and reversible form of contraception, they have been associated with adverse changes to mood in some women. Depression is one of the side effects listed in patient guidelines for contraceptive medications, and lowered mood is one of the most common reasons provided by women for discontinuing their use of contraceptive medication.
The research project aims to investigate whether the mood of women who are currently using contraceptive medication differs from the mood of women not using this medication and to explore some of the factors that might explain any difference.
The Li Transformative Hub for Research into Eating Disorders (Li-THRED) is a pivotal initiative within Monash University’s HER Centre Australia. The revolutionary program signifies a much-needed paradigm shift in the approach to researching and treating eating disorders, with a particular emphasis on anorexia nervosa. Driven by generous philanthropic support from founding patrons Mr David Li (AM) and Mrs Angela Li, Li-THRED officially launched in June 2023 at Monash University, marking a significant milestone in the pursuit of transformative, ground-breaking research and clinical trials.
Since its inception, our multidisciplinary Li-THRED Research team has laid the groundwork for seven innovative clinical trials to develop world-first, biologicallybased treatments for anorexia nervosa. Recruiting participants in early 2024, these trials will involve targeted brain stimulation, repurposed pharmacological medications, and hormonal therapies. The primary objective of the trials is to evaluate the effectiveness of these innovative treatments, with the potential to reduce eating disorder symptoms for participants.
Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that impact 70 million individuals worldwide and over 1 million Australians. Despite the severe impact of eating disorders
on individuals, their carers, and our broader community, the field has unfortunately experienced minimal advancements in treatment over the past six decades. While cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is the current ‘gold standard’ for treating eating disorders, the evidence suggests that existing treatments are, at best, only moderately effective, with less than half of those who receive treatment for disorders achieving recovery. Eating disorders result from a complex interplay of both psychological and biological factors. However, research and development of treatments have predominantly focused on the psychological aspects, leaving a significant gap in addressing the biological components that contribute to the development and maintenance of eating disorders.
To fill this gap, Li-THRED was established as a comprehensive and cutting-edge program of investigative studies and clinical trials, drawing upon the latest advancements in neuroscience and brain research to further its mission. The program is conducted by a multidisciplinary research team working with clinicians and people with lived experience of severe eating disorders, as well as their families. Eating disorder advocacy groups and lived experience consultants are involved to ensure ‘real world’ clinical trials development as well as effective translation into clinical practice.
Overall, Li-THRED will address critical gaps in understanding, paving the way for revolutionary research and treatments; bringing hope to the over 4% of Australian population impacted by eating disorders. Through ground-breaking studies, advanced neuroscience and innovative treatments, Li-THRED is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of those who have long sought effective interventions for severe and debilitating eating disorders.
Estradiol is a hormone with the potential to improve mood, bone health, and appetite, which are all domains negatively impacted by anorexia nervosa. Estradiol is especially effective when delivered through the skin via a transdermal patch. Accordingly, this clinical trial will compare the effect of an estradiol patch versus a placebo patch on anorexia nervosa symptoms in a sample of 50 participants with the illness. Overall, the trial of estradiol aims to improve psychological symptoms and body health in people with anorexia nervosa, as well as improving mood, cognition, and appetite.
Imbalances in brain chemicals and gut bacteria are often found in individuals with anorexia nervosa, and these disturbances potentially play an important role in the development and maintenance of the illness. Existing drugs target these
processes – specifically memantine, brexpiprazole, zinc, and sodium butyrate – but have yet to be tested in people with anorexia nervosa. As such, four clinical trials are being launched to examine the effects of these repurposed medicines compared with placebo on anorexia nervosa symptoms in a sample of 125 participants.
Recognising the lack of current pharmacological treatment for AN despite the widespread use of medicines in the treatment of most other psychiatric conditions, this study aims to investigate the safety and efficacy of these medications in treating AN. This project will provide valuable insights into neurological underpinnings of the illness, opening new avenues for treatment.
Recent research indicates a potential overlap between eating disorders and ADHD, suggesting that ADHD may contribute to the development of eating disorders. However, there’s a reluctance to use stimulant medications for ADHD in those with eating disorders due to their appetite-suppressing effects. This case series includes six participants with an active or remitted eating disorder, exploring how ADHD stimulant treatment impacts their eating disorder symptoms, with
preliminary results demonstrating that stimulants could potentially improve, or at least do not exacerbate, eating disorder symptoms.
This study investigates the use of sodium butyrate, a supplement derived from butyric acid, to potentially treat anorexia nervosa (AN). There is growing evidence to suggest that disruptions in gut microbiota may play a role in the development and maintenance of AN. Thus, sodium butyrate, which targets gut inflammation and impacts gene activity, may be a promising treatment. Overall, the trial explores the therapeutic effects of sodium butyrate in improving AN symptoms, providing insights into the gut microbiome’s role in AN treatment.
This clinical trial investigates the use of repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) in people who have Anorexia Nervosa (AN), to see if it might help improve their symptoms.
rTMS is a non-invasive method of brain stimulation that involves the repeated application of magnetic pulses to your head via a ‘coil’. rTMS is an established treatment for depression which has been proven to work in numerous clinical trials. Few studies have looked into rTMS treatment for AN, but results from those have been promising.
Li-THRED & HER Centre Director
Professor Jayashri Kulkarni
HER Centre Manager
Mr Anthony de Castella
Senior Research Fellow & Li-THRED Manager
Dr Eva Gregertsen
TMS Team Manager
Dr Lizzie Thomas
Consultant Psychiatrist & Brain Stimulation Researcher
Dr Leo Chen
Consultant Psychiatrist & Eating Disorders Researcher
Dr Romi Goldschlager
Women’s Mental Health Research Fellow & Manager
Dr Eveline Mu
Therapeutic Trials Team Manager
Ms Emmy Gavrilidis
Medical Officer
Dr Nadya Lazareva
Eating Disorders Psychologist/Research Assistant
Karen Goldschlager
Mental Health Dietitian
Cindy Yu
Volunteer Research Assistant Mahak Gera
Cognitive problems such as difficulty with memory, attention, problem-solving and decision making are a problematic feature of many conditions. Cognitive symptoms are often over-looked and under-researched, leading to individuals being misdiagnosed or poorly treated. The Cognition and Hormones group is focused on characterising cognition in a range of psychiatric and women’s health conditions- with an emphasis on understanding the critical links between sex hormones, stress and cognition.
The Hormones and Cognition Group uses traditional neuropsychological testing, combined with eye tracking technology to clearly characterise cognition across diverse mental health and cognitive disorders including schizophrenia, depression and complex trauma disorders. Our group also seeks to identify cognitive, mood and behavioural changes occurring across the menstrual cycle and during transition to menopause. Our group researches biological and lifestyle factors that contribute to cognitive problems as well as cognitive health.
In 2023, some of our notable research projects included:
Hormones and the Mind - an exploration of behaviour, cognition and symptoms across the menstrual cycle, focusing on premenstrual mood disorders.
‘Brain fog’ during menopausethis research focuses on this very common, yet understudied symptom of perimenopause and aims to better measure and better understand brain fog as well as develop simple resources to help women.
ADHD in women - This series of studies is exploring how ADHD symptoms and experiences change across different life stages for women, as well as exploring the associations between sex hormones, neurotransmitter levels (such as dopamine and serotonin) and ADHD symptoms across times of hormonal change (e.g. across the menstrual cycle and during menopause).
2023 Team
Head
A/Prof Caroline Gurvich
Postdoctoral Research Fellow
Dr Lizzie Thomas
Research Assistant
Ms Jasmine Tadjibaeva
Honours Students
Elyssa Osianlis
Laura Brulez
Elle Haryanto
PhD candidates
Chen ‘Vanessa’ Zhu
Harjit Bagga
Emma Cholakians
Dinuli Nilaweera (based at the School of Public Health)
An open label pilot study of theta burst stimulation to treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder
Investigators:
Dr Leo Chen (Principal Investigator)
Dr ElizabethThomas
A/Prof Caroline Gurvich
Prof Jayashri Kulkarni
Study Aim:
The overall objective of this pilot study is to evaluate whether brain stimulation, in the form of prolonged intermittent theta burst stimulation (piTBS), is effective in the treatment of mood and other psychological symptoms in women with PMDD. TBS has proven to be helpful for some people who experience depression. piTBS applies more pulses than the standard TBS protocol and studies have shown that more pulse counts have resulted in superior antidepressant effects, with no significant adverse effects. The project will compare mood symptoms and cognitive functioning in the pretreatment and treatment phases to explore the efficacy of piTBS as a suitable treatment for PMDD.
In 2023, the centre launched the ‘HER Mental Health Campaign’ which advocated for government funding to establish vital women’s mental health services to alleviate the strain on Australia’s Mental Health system, including:
• Specialist women’s mental health clinics across Australia, using a hub and spoke model, staffed by GPs, Clinical Psychologists, and Consultant Psychiatrists.
• Clinical trials of new treatments for women that study cutting edge treatments and interventions.
• Education of GPs, clinicians, psychiatrists and the general public about the specific mental health challenges for women.
HER Centre had the opportunity to host a parliamentary forum in March, 2023 to advocate for women’s mental health. Currently in Australia, there is a significant gender mental health gap, with insufficient funding, research, treatments and education of the specific mental health needs for women. Recognising this need for change, the HER Centre Australia team will continue to work on numerous aspects of women’s mental health to help make a tangible, nationwide difference in women’s lives.
HCA Supporters
Jo Stanley
Professor Clare Wright OAM
Kaz Cooke
Sue Maslin
Sally Seltmann
Thea O’Connor
Shelley Horton
Dr Ginni Mansberg
Brie Moore
Mark Cubit
Dr Nicola Gates
Katherine Thomson
Cilla de Lacy
Joanna Murray-Smith
Sharon Sherwood
This year, HER Centre proudly hosted the Inaugural Asia-Pacific Conference on Women’s Mental Health (APWMH) at The Langham, Melbourne on October 11th to 13th. In collaboration with Alfred Health, Cabrini Health and the IAWMH, this trailblazing event spanned two transformative days of keynote sessions, oral and poster presentations, workshops and panel discussions.
With a vision to mark World Mental Health Month annually, the APWMH conference aims to build momentum on the conversations around greater funding, awareness and support for women and gender-diverse people, for a happier, healthier future.
The conference theme, Metamorphosis: Women’s Mental Health Through the Lifespan, delved into the female transitional stages from youth to reproductive years and later life, exploring topics including cPTSD and trauma, PMDD, sleep and hormones, perinatal mental health, ADHD, digital innovation, menopause, positive ageing and more.
By fostering a collaborative platform for knowledge sharing – through case studies, lived experience, cuttingedge research and clinical translation – this conference set out to upskill our region’s general practitioners and healthcare professionals with tangible tools and understanding for better diagnosis and treatment of female patients.
With over 250 delegates in attendance including clinicians, healthcare professionals, NGOs, policymakers, advocates, and lived experience consumers, the conference was more than an academic gathering; it marked the beginning of transformative action and a powerful movement dedicated to gender-focused mental health outcomes. We were joined by leading experts and internationallyrecognised researchers, including Professor Prahba Chandra (India), Dr Louise Newson (UK) and Dr Tory Eisenlohr-Lohr (US) who shared their enriching insights with the delegates. The conference was also generously supported by the Cubitt Family Foundation travel grant, which enabled early-career clinicians and researchers from low and middle
income countries such as Ghana, South Africa and Cambodia to attend the conference, equipping them with invaluable knowledge and tools to take back to their communities.
The formation of a menopause working group at this year’s event spurred an Australian Senate inquiry on November 6, 2023, which will investigate the mental, physical, and economic effects of perimenopause and menopause, exploring implications for funding and policy.
Energised by these outcomes, our conference extended networks remain dedicated to continuing critical conversations, working towards tangible improvements in women’s mental health across the Asia Pacific region. Committed to reigniting the conversation around women’s mental health, the HER Centre Team will host a sequel conference in 2024 to continue building on the collaborative outcomes achieved in 2023.
Mental illness has many gender-specific and agespecific characteristics that clinical practice has historically overlooked. HER Centre’s selfpaced eLearning Activity aims to upskill clinicians to enable them to work sensitively and effectively with women who are experiencing mental ill-health, and to integrate an understanding of factors such as the role of trauma and endocrinology in the development of mental illness as well as implications for treatments.
Health clinicians, as a key point of contact for women of all ages who suffer from complex mental health conditions, play a critical role in early identification, risk assessment and timely intervention. The topics from the course encompass the psychological management of women from three important phases across the lifespan; adolescence, midlife
and perinatal phases. It delves into the psychological management of women, providing background knowledge, assessment and treatment options for women of all ages.
This includes:
• Adolescent women and content relating to the contraceptive pill
• Menstrual cycle and premenstrual mood disorders
• Complex trauma disorders
• Perinatal mental health
• Psychotic disorders
• Mental Health and menopause
This activity aims to cultivate a ‘new thinking’ approach to better equip clinicians with the skills to enhance the mental health and wellbeing of women. The content draws on a biopsychosocial framework of
women’s mental health, with a focus on psychoneuroendocrine research.
Convened by Professor Jayashri Kulkarni, each course is accredited for 5.0 continuing professional development (CPD) hours by RANZCP, RANZCOG and RACGP. This CPD Activity has also been approved by the Australian Psychological Society (APS for 5 hours).
Dr Sarah Rotstein
Dr Caroline Thew
A/Prof Caroline Gurvich
Dr Carolyn Breadon
A/Prof Shalini Arunogiri
OUR TEAM INCLUDES PSYCHIATRISTS, PSYCHOLOGISTS, DOCTORS, RESEARCHERS PROFESSIONALS, HIGHER DEGREE STUDENTS, AND ADMINISTRATION. ACROSS OUR TEAM, WE HAVE DECADES OF SUCCESSFUL RESEARCH AND CLINICAL WORK IN WOMEN’S MENTAL HEALTH.
OUR FOCUS IS CREATING INTERVENTIONS AND TREATMENTS THAT ARE TAILORED TO THE UNIQUE ASPECTS OF MENTAL ILLNESS THROUGH A WOMAN’S LIFESPAN.
The Team
Team Leader/Chief Investigator
Prof Jayashri Kulkarni
Dr Leo Chen
Sub- Investigator
Dr Genevieve D’Mello
Dr Lauren Dawes
Dr Nadya Lazareva
Dr James Tranter
Team Manager
Emmy Gavrilidis
Post-Doctoral Researcher
Dr Eveline Mu
Clinical Trial Coordinators
Amanda Karagiannidis
Ebony Rauer
Marta Malicka
Navneet Legha
Psychologists/ Study Raters
Emma Cholakians
Kathleen De Boer
Mizan Ahmad
Tina Liu
Mr Anthony de Castella
Research Nurse
Prue Read
Yasmin Malik
Emma Dumigan
Research Officer
Alex Zhang (Volunteer)
The Therapeutic Trials Team specialises in executing industry-led clinical trials for cutting-edge pharmacological treatments in neuropsychiatric conditions. Under the guidance of both Professor Jayashri Kulkarni and Dr Leo Chen, we have an experienced, multidisciplinary team who are committed to finding new treatments for a broad range of major psychiatric illnesses including; Major Depressive Disorders, Schizophrenia and Borderline Personality Disorder. The team includes a clinical trials manager, medical practitioners, psychologists, clinical trial coordinators, research nurses and volunteer project officers. We also involve people with lived experience to provide input into study design, and conduct.
Our expertise is reflected in the first-rate reviews we receive from our clinical trial stakeholders. We continue to foster invaluable partnerships with numerous practising clinicians and have developed an ongoing participant referral database. We receive consistent positive feedback from our participants who report impressive outcomes and a
Title: A phase II randomized, doubleblinded, placebo-controlled parallel group trial to examine the efficacy and safety of 4 oral doses of BI 1358894 once daily over a 12-week treatment period in patients with borderline personality disorder.
Principal Investigator: Dr Leonard Chen
Sub Investigators: Prof Jayashri Kulkarni, Dr Lauren Dawes, Anthony de Castella
Study Staff: Dr Eveline Mu, Marta Malicka, Emmy Gavrilidis, Emma Dumigan, Emma Cholakians, Kathleen de Boer
Sponsor: Boehringer Ingelheim Pty Ltd
Primary Aim: The main objectives of this trial were to provide proof of concept (PoC) and dose-ranging data of BI 1358894 compared to placebo in patients with Borderline Personality Disorder to support dose selection for pivotal studies.
Study Updates: The site recruitment target was 5+ and at the conclusion of the trial we screened/consented 17 patients of which 11 were randomised to the study drug. 6 patients were not eligible for the trial and therefore did not proceed and 11 patients completed the study.
Title: A Phase II, 6-week, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, doubledummy, placebo-controlled, parallel group trial with a quetiapine arm to evaluate the efficacy, tolerability and safety of oral BI 1358894 in patients with Major Depressive Disorder with inadequate response to antidepressants.
Principal Investigator: Dr Leonard Chen
Sub Investigators: Prof Jayashri Kulkarni, Dr Lauren Dawes, Anthony de Castella
Study Staff: Navneet Legha, Marta Malicka, Emmy Gavrilidis, Emma Dumigan, Emma Cholakians, Kathleen de Boer
Sponsor: Boehringer Ingelheim Pty Ltd
Title: A phase II randomized, doubleblinded, placebo-controlled parallel group trial to examine the efficacy and safety of BI 425809 once daily with adjunctive Computerized Cognitive Training over 12 week treatment period in patients with schizophrenia
Principal Investigator: Dr Leonard Chen
Sub Investigators: Prof Jayashri Kulkarni, Dr Lauren Dawes, Anthony de Castella
Study Staff: Yasmin Malik and Marta Malicka, Emma Dumigan, Emmy Gavrilidis, Emma Cholakians, Kathleen de Boer
Sponsor: Boehringer Ingelheim Pty Ltd
Title: XanaCIDD: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel-Group Trial to Assess the Safety, Tolerability, and Efficacy of Xanamem® in Adults with Cognitive Impairment due to Depressive Disorder
Principal Investigator: Dr Leonard Chen
Sub Investigators: Prof Jayashri Kulkarni, Dr Nadya Lazareva, Dr James Tranter
Study Staff: Marta Malicka, Prue Read, Ebony Rauer, Emmy Gavrilidis, Mizan Ahmad, Tina Liu
Sponsor: Actinogen Medical Ltd
Study updates: As a site we are on track to achieving a target of 16 by the end of recruitment in 2024, with 11 participants having completed the study so far. We are the second best performing site globally.
Title: A phase III randomized, doubleblind, placebo-controlled parallel group trial to examine the efficacy and safety of Iclepertin once daily over 26 week treatment period in patients with Schizophrenia (CONNEX-1).
Principal Investigator: Dr Leonard Chen
Sub Investigators: Dr Morteza Jafarinia, Dr Nadya Lazareva, Dr Jessica Chiodo-Reidy
Study Staff: Amanda Karagiannidis, Mizan Ahmad, Prue Read, Emmy Gavrilidis, Ebony Rauer, Marta Malicka, Tina Liu, Yasmin Malik
Sponsor: Boehringer Ingelheim Pty Ltd
Study updates: We are the first site Australia wide to have recruited and screened their first participant for the CONNEX-1 study. The site recruitment target is n=2, of which we are tracking to achieve by February 2024.
Title: An open label. single arm, extension trial to examine long-term safety of Iclepertin once daily in patients with schizophrenia who have completed previous Iclepertin Phase III trials (CONNEX-X).
Principal Investigator: Dr Leonard Chen
Sub Investigators: Dr Morteza Jafarinia, Dr Nadya Lazareva, Dr Jessica Chiodo-Reidy
Study Staff: Amanda Karagiannidis, Mizan Ahmad, Prue Read, Emmy Gavrilidis, Ebony Rauer, Marta Malicka, Tina Liu
Sponsor: Boehringer Ingelheim Pty Ltd
Study updates: Our patients from CONNEX-1 are anticipated to rollover to CONNEX-X in 2024 following the completion of the initial 26 weeks.
Title: A 3-arm Multicentre, Randomised, Double-Blind, PlaceboControlled Study of Metformin and Atorvastatin for the Treatment of Depression
Principal Investigator: Professor Jayashri Kulkarni
Sub Investigators: Dr Leonard Chen, Emmy Gavrilidis
Study Staff: Ebony Rauer, Prue Read, Emmy Gavrilidis, Dr James Tranter, Mizan Ahmad, Amanda Karagiannidis, Dr Nadya Lazareva
Sponsor: Deakin University
Study updates: Recruitment commenced in September 2023. So far, 5 participants have been screened and 3 have been randomised.
We initiated a trial feedback survey in April 2023 to capture feedback from participants enrolled in our clinical trials. To date we have collected surveys from 23 participants who have completed their participation.
Clearly explained; understood details of involvement Time commitment was reasonable All of my questions well answered I would recommend family/friends to research Felt comfortable communicating to research team
The Brain Stimulation Lab is at the forefront of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) research in translational and therapeutic applications. TMS is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that delivers electromagnetic energy to modulate brain activity and connectivity, and has been clinically proven to effectively and safely treat depression and other neuropsychiatric disorders. Unlike pharmacological therapies, which are the treatment mainstays in depression, TMS has minimal side effects.
Under the leadership of psychiatrist and clinician-scientist Dr Leo Chen, the Brain Stimulation Lab focuses on translating cutting-edge neuroscience to large-scale, transformative clinical trials. This includes:
1) Clinical trials to improve the therapeutic efficacy of non-invasive therapeutic brain stimulation using pharmacological facilitation of synaptic neuroplasticity and signal transmission (i.e. making subtle and temporary changes in the biochemistry of the space where two brain cells connect to facilitate effective transmission of electrical signal from one brain cell to another), and;
2) Developing transdiagnostic treatment applications for therapeutic brain stimulation modalities by using neuroimaging biomarkers and
causal networks to inform novel, individualised neurostimulation therapies. Establishing brain networks that have causal inference to the symptoms in question provides a wiring diagram which can be targeted and modulated using TMS in order to treat symptoms.
Some of their key projects include pharmacological augmentation to improve TMS’s antidepressant efficacy, a world-first proof-of-concept pilot study of TMS in Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) and a collaboration with Harvard University in another world- first project using an MRI-derived brain target to treat anorexia nervosa.
Through their ongoing projects, the TMS Research Unit provides hundreds of patients access to innovative treatments via clinical trials, unlocking TMS for vulnerable community members who are currently in need of effective, innovative treatments.
In 2023, the TMS team have been conducting numerous clinical trials including:
TMS to treat PMDD
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is an under-recognised but severe and cyclical mood disorder affecting 5-10% of women of childbearing age. It is characterised by
irritability, mood changes, swings and physical symptoms that develop during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle and resolve after the commencement of menses. The condition carries significant distress and morbidity, yet limited therapeutic options exist.
The Brain Stimulation Lab Team’s world-first pilot study applying short, intensive courses of TMS in the late luteal (premenstrual) phase of the menstrual cycle, timed from ovulation, holds potential for the development of an effective and well tolerated treatment option for this disabling condition.
This world-first pilot study is currently recruiting and recruitment is expected to finish in 2024. Preliminary findings were presented at the Inaugural Asia-Pacific Conference on Women’s Mental Health, which showed promising results to date.
Intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) is a pattern of delivering TMS pulses that has demonstrated equivalent antidepressant effects as conventional TMS. Their shared mechanism of action is the repeated, patterned delivery of electromagnetic pulses, which strengthens the connections across brain networks. The added benefit of iTBS is that each session is one-tenth of the duration of that of conventional TMS.
Psychiatrists, neuroscientists and research collaborators at Brown University, Harvard University, McLean Hospital and the University of Calgary have pioneered the enhancement of this effect with d-cycloserine, a medication with minimal side effects. In a recent randomised, doubleblinded, placebo-controlled trial led by A/Prof McGirr at the University of Calgary, the administration of d-cycloserine prior to iTBS treatment significantly improved iTBS’s antidepressant efficacy by doubling the treatment response rate, compared with placebo.
Leo is leading a larger Australian multisite study to replicate these potentially transformative findings, as well as
investigate the optimal d-cycloserine dosage for the purpose of boosting iTBS’s antidepressant effect. With the goal of making this treatment available to as many as possible in its clinical trial stages of development, Leo has committed collaborating sites at the Queens Elizabeth Hospital in Adelaide, the Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science in Western Australia, the Gold Coast University Hospital and Bluebell Health Melbourne Specialist Clinic.
A consumer-centred evaluation of this trial is simultaneously being conducted to evaluate participants’ experiences, functioning and quality of life over the course of their participation in the clinical trial.
Machine learning prediction of TMS depression treatment response
Leo supervised two psychiatry trainees in an analysis of his own PhD data to devise a treatment response prediction model, based on the degree of depression symptom reduction early in courses of TMS therapy. This work was presented at the 5th International Brain Stimulation Conference in Portugal in February 2023. Through invigorating, supporting and supervising research undertaken by doctors-in- training, it is the team’s hope that the next generation of Victorian doctors and psychiatrists will continue to innovate and improve our therapies and models of care, to improve health outcomes for Victorians and communities around the world.
Head of Brain Stimulation Lab
Dr Leo Chen
Team Manager and Research Fellow
Dr Elizabeth Thomas
Research Fellow
Dr Andris Cerins
Research Nurse
David Elliot
Medical Officer
Dr Jessica Chiodo-Reidy
Study Coordinator
Jacqueline Noonan
Lived Experience Investigator
Hazel Moores
Psychologist and PhD candidate
Emma Cholakians
Psychology Student
Tahlia Selzer
Psychiatry Registrar
Dr James Tranter
Medical officers and psychiatry trainees working on projects
Medical Officer
Surina Butler
Medical Officer
Ria Jain
Medical Officer
Sarah Gribbin
Medical Officer
Cassandra de Pasquale
Psychiatry Registrar
David Nguyen
Psychiatry Registrar
Stephanie Kirkby
Psychiatry Registrar
Meghna Sharma
Medical Officer
Pravik Solanki
•
The Research Working Group consists of a group of individuals who meet monthly to collaborate around research ideas and opportunities relating to mental health research at Peninsula Health. The membership is broad, and extends to all levels of research experience and clinical backgrounds, including those in peer work roles, education, administration, medical staff, allied health and nursing staff. The group works without an agenda to provide an informal platform to collaborate around research opportunities. For those who have little to no research background, it provides an opportunity to learn about current research projects, become involved in existing research or to discuss emerging research ideas or projects with senior and experienced researchers. For those currently involved in research it provides an opportunity to collaborate with other researchers and discuss any challenges arising with senior researchers.
in mental health
The ironbark project: a multi-site structured group intervention in PARCs for addressing distress.
Principal Investigator: Dr Ethan Chua
Evaluation of the impact of a new purpose built inpatient environment on consumer carer and staff experiences
Principal Investigators: Prof Richard Newton and Dr Kerryn Rubin
A Multi-agency Evaluation of the Routine Practice of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Groups for Recovery from Psychosis
Principal Investigator: Dr Siobain Bonfield
CARE: Relational Coping Skills in Crisis
Principal Investigator: Ms Ruth Lonie
CARE: Relational Coping Skills Enhancement for Psychosis
Principal Investigator: Dr Ellie Newman Relational Mapping at the PARCS
Principal Investigator: Dr Siobain Bonfield
Evaluation of Restrictive Practices in Inpatient Mental Health Services at Peninsula Health
Principal Investigator: Prof Richard Gray
A Clinical Audit investigating the use of Advance Statements within the Peninsula Health Aged Persons Community Mental Health Service (APMHS)
Principal Investigator: Dr Ashwin Sathyamoorthi
An Audit of Clozapine Therapy Monitoring Requirements for Patients on Clozapine within Peninsula Health Mental Health Service
Principal Investigator: Dr Ethan Chua
MBBS, MPM, FRANZCP, PhD, FAHMS
Director, Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre (MAPrc)
Director HER Centre Australia
Head, Department of Psychiatry
– Central Clinical School, Monash University
Jayashri KULKARNI commenced her appointment as Professor of Psychiatry, The Alfred and Monash University in 2002. She founded and directs a large psychiatric research group, the Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre (MAPrc), which expanded from 25 personnel in 2002 to over 160 staff and students in 2017, covering seven different research streams, and conducting over 100 clinical trials. The aim of the research centre, encapsulated in its catchphrase “We Mend Minds”, is to develop new treatments, new understanding and new service deliveries for people with mental illness. MAPrc is a clinical psychiatry research centre that translates cutting edge neuroscience discoveries into innovative treatments for severe mental illnesses. In 2019, Professor Kulkarni became Head of the Department of Psychiatry, Central Clinical School, Monash University. In 2021, Professor Kulkarni established Australia’s first women’s mental health hospital at Cabrini Health. She is the Head of Women’s Mental Health at Cabrini. In 2022, Professor Kulkarni developed HER Centre Australia – a Monash University Centre that is dedicated to Health, Education and Research in women’s mental health.
Jayashri graduated from Monash Medical School, Melbourne Australia in 1981, worked in emergency medicine and then decided to become a psychiatrist. She became a Fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists in 1988 and was awarded a PhD from Monash University in 1997 for her thesis “Women and Psychosis”. A major area of her research involves psychoneuroendocrine studies of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis in women with severe mental illnesses. In particular, she has pioneered the use of estrogen as a new treatment in severe mental illness. Jayashri has been invited to deliver keynote addresses at many international meetings and conferences, and collaborates extensively with researchers nationally and throughout the world.
Women’s Mental Health is a major area of Jayashri’s research. In 2015, Professor Kulkarni founded the Australian Consortium for Women’s Mental Health and is well known internationally for her work. She is part of the executive committee and was the President of the International Association for Women’s Mental Health from 2017 to 2019. In March 2008, she successfully ran the 3rd International Congress on Women’s Mental Health held in Melbourne and has recently won the bid to host the International Congress for Women’s Mental Health again in Melbourne in 2021.
Jayashri was a member of NHMRC peak Research Committee and the Federal Million Minds Health Research Mission (as part of the 2018/19
federal budget) and is a foundation member of the “Club Melbourne” initiative, which involves many Governmental Departments in the pursuit of academic conferences and activities for the city of Melbourne. In 2013, Jayashri became a co - Director of the Monash Partners Academic Health Science Centre, Neurosciences & Mental Health Stream.
She has won many prestigious awards for her research work in Women’s Mental Health. In 2010, with Dr Brian Lithgow, she won the National New Inventors Grand Final Award for the invention of the EVestG – a biomarker and diagnostic tool for mental illness. In 2011 her contribution to women’s mental health was formally recognized by the Government of Victoria and she was inducted onto the prestigious Victorian Honour Roll of Women in 2011. In 2014, she was awarded a prestigious Melbourne Award for contribution to the community by an individual for her work in women’s mental health. In 2016, Jayashri was elected as a Fellow of the prestigious Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences (AAHMS). In 2019 she received a prestigious Level 3 Leadership NHMRC Investigator grant and was also made Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for significant service to Medicine in the field of Psychiatry.
Regarding teaching, Jayashri is a co-director of the Monash University Medical student teaching program in Psychiatry and with colleagues, she revamped the entire curriculum in 2018. She also directed the Master’s Degree in Psychological Medicine from 1984 to 1997. Jayashri was the Director of Research for the School of Psychology, Psychiatry and Psychological Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Science, Monash University in 2009 - 2010. In 2013, Jayashri became the Director of the Monash Partners Academic Health Science Centre, Neurosciences & Mental Health Stream. She has successfully supervised over 40 PhD/doctoral candidates and BMedSci Hons students in the past 5 years, is an examiner for RANZCP and provides mentorship for 15 post-doctoral researchers.
As a psychiatrist, Jayashri has extensive clinical experience in many broad areas of practice. She trained in consultation – liaison psychiatry, and then became the Deputy Director of the Early Psychosis Centre, Melbourne, then the Director of the Dandenong Psychiatry Service. Currently she runs a women’s mental health tertiary referral clinic at the Alfred Hospital and at Victoria Clinic in the past. Over the years, she has supervised many psychiatry registrars, medical students and postgraduate students in various mental health disciplines.
Professor Kulkarni is a well-known public speaker and has a great deal of experience with the media. She has been a regular presenter on ABC radio and has contributed to many other talkback radio programs as well as appearing on television programs
such as the “Insight “ series on SBS, and ABC 7.30 report. She also has written opinion pieces for “The Age” newspaper on several occasions. Professor Kulkarni and Dr Brian Lithgow won the 2010 Grand Final of the ABC Television “New Inventors” programme, for their invention – the EVestG – a novel test to objectively identify and diagnose mental illness.
To date, Prof Kulkarni has 289 publications, 25 book chapters and 56 other publications.
In a review of her research centre by Monash University, Professor Kulkarni received a personal commendation for her leadership of her large group of researchers and she was noted to be an enthusiastic, supportive, nurturing academic who inspired research excellence and collegiality.
Anthony de Castella is Research and Business Manager and Senior Research Fellow within the Monash University Department of Psychiatry (CCS) and it’s two affiliated research Centre’s; The Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre (MAPrc), and HER Centre Australia – “Health Education and Research in Women’s Mental Health”
For the last 30+ years Anthony has been privileged to work with Prof Jayashri Kulkarni AM, and the many inspirational and talented researchers and students who have worked in the department. Inspired by their dedication and passion, Anthony’s role is primarily to support the researchers, students and other personnel in the department to enhance their capacity to produce outputs that positively impact on the lives of people living with mental illness.
Anthony is responsible for staff recruitment and management, budgeting and financial performance, facilities and equipment management, and strategic planning and implementation. With qualifications in Applied Science (Nursing, Psychology and Psychophysiology) Anthony also directly contributes to the research activities in the department and has been the recipient of research grants from government, philanthropy (including the Australian Rotary Health research Fund) and industry. He contributes publications in peer reviewed journals and has presented at national and international conferences. Anthony also actively supports the fundraising, community engagement and marketing of MAPrc and has coordinated the organisation of MAPrc hosted conferences, workshops, public lectures and fund-raising events.
Dr Leo Chen is a consultant psychiatrist and lecturer at the Department of Psychiatry, Central Clinical School, Monash University. He is Director of Psychiatry Training at Alfred Health and Head of the Psychopharmacology Research Team and TMS Clinical Research Unit at the Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre.
Dr Chen has worked in clinical and academic psychiatric settings since 2010. His experience in clinical trials started in 2013, working with Professor Paul Fitzgerald in Australia’s first TMS research and clinical settings. His research in using TMS to treat depression has been published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at local and international scientific conferences.
Dr Chen has been proactive in medical and psychiatry education at both under- and postgraduate levels for well over a decade. As Director of Psychiatry Training at Alfred Health, he leads the training program at one of Australia’s most reputable and innovative mental health services, where he oversees the education and career progression needs of approximately 50 psychiatry trainees.
Consultant Psychiatrist, Alfred Mental and Addiction Health
Director, Postgraduate Psychiatry Training, Alfred Health
Head, Brain Stimulation and Psychopharmacology Research Units, Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre (MAPrc)
Senior Research Fellow, Department of Psychiatry, Central Clinical School, Monash University
2023 Staff employed
Elizabeth Thomas and Andris Cerins –Postdoctoral researchers
David Elliot- Research Nurse
Research AssistantJacqueline Noonan
Research Medical OfficerJessica Chiodo-Reidy
Research Psychiatry RegistrarJames Tranter
2023 Students
Emma Katrina Cholakians - Thesis
Title: Identification of brain targets causally mapped to the characteristics of BPD using personalised TMS.
Dr James Morrison Tranter - Thesis Title: Reputation and reputational risk in psychiatric practice.
Dr Roshini Balasooriya Lekamge
- Thesis Title: Towards an integrated universal mental health curriculum for Australian secondary schools
Dr David Plevin - Thesis Title: Investigating clinical predictors of response to transcranial magnetic stimulation in depression.
2023 Staff employed
Jasmine Tadjibaeva –Research Assistant
2023 Students
Honours:
Elyssa Osianlis- Research Area: ADHD in Women and People assigned female at birth across the lifespan
Laura Brulez - Research Area: ADHD symptoms across the menstrual cycle
Elle Haryanto-Research Area: Trauma and empathy in borderline personality disorder
PhD students: Chen Zhu - Thesis Title: Cognition during menopause.
Harjit Surindera Bagga - Thesis Title: Transgender mental health and cognition.
A/Prof Anne Powell - Thesis Title: The impact of burnout on the delivery of medical education.
Emma Cholokians- Thesis Title: Impulsivity in Borderline Personality Disorder
Associate Professor Caroline Gurvich
Associate Professor; Head, Cognition and Hormones Group; Deputy Director HER Centre Australia
Kirsten Gainsford- Thesis Title: Social Cognition in schizophrenia
Dinuli Nilaweera (School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine)Thesis Title: The Association between adverse events across the lifespan and later-life health outcomes
Tanya Gilmartin- Thesis Title: Personality and Eating Disorders
2023 Grants and Awards
Cognitive training for women’s mental health: COGtrain Gurvich, C., Kulkarni, J. &; Tadjibaeva, J. Perpetual Trustees Australia: A$120,000.00 25/07/22 to 24/07/23
C-PTSD: One in Five donation to HER Centre Australia to Support The Alison Project - Trials and Treatments for Women Suffering Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
ulkarni, J., De Castella, A., Mu, E. &; Gurvich, C.One in Five Incorporated 30/08/22 to 30/08/23
Support for the Li Transformative Hub for Research in Eating Disorders
Kulkarni, J., Chen, L., Gurvich, C., De Castella, A., Mu, E. Gregertsen, E.Sherry Li 1/01/24 to 31/12/27
The Damian Project Kulkarni, J., Gurvich, C., De Castella, A. & Thomas, N. Mohr Family 1/07/19 to 30/06/28
Conferences Presentations
Grand Round Melbourne Clinicpresenter (25 Oct 2023)
• Grand Round Alfred Health (AMAH) - presenter (17 Aug 2023)
• Asia-Pacific Conference on Women’s Mental Health 2023Organising Committee; Session Chair; Presenter (11 Oct 2023)
• Boehringer Ingelheim Cognitive Impairment Associated with Schizophrenia RoundtablePresenter / panel member (23 Sept 2023)
• Menopause and brain FogOrca Programs- Presenter (10 May 2023)
• WHISE presentation - Sex and Gender in mental wellbeingPresenter (27 Apr 2023 and 18 July 2023
• WHISE presentation – Your mind on menopause- Presenter (14 November 2023)
• Epworth HealthCare Women’s Mental Health Seminar- Presenter (1 Apr 2023)
• Women’s mental health Parliamentary Forum – Presenter (March 2023)
Media Stories
• ABC Catalyst: The Truth About Menopause (2/05/23)
• ABC Digital: How changes in oestrogen levels before, during menopause can affect how we think and
• Feel (5/05/23)
• The Conversation: How hormones and the menstrual cycle can affect women with ADHD: 5 common
• Questions (16/08/23)
• The Conversation: Hot flushes, night sweats, brain fog, Here’s what we know about phytoestrogens for menopausal symptoms (5/06/23)
• Podcast: ABC All in the mind- Demystifying menopause (26/07/23)
• World Menopause Day: Linked In Post (FMNHS) (18/10/23)
Personal Background
Caroline is an Associate Professor, a Clinical Neuropsychologist and a happy mother to three children. She has been working in the field of adult mental health for about two decades in a research and clinical capacity and has a particular interest in how sex hormones can influence the brain, behaviour and cognition. When she’s not at work, Caroline loves spending time with her family and friends, walking and running on the beach, doing yoga, and reading books.
Caroline is the Deputy Director of HER Centre Australia, Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Head of the “Cognition and Hormones Group” and Chair of the Victorian College of Clinical Neuropsychologists. Caroline also works in private practice as a Clinical Neuropsychologist.
Caroline’s research interests are related to characterising and understanding cognition in the field of mental illness. She is particularly interested in the role of sex hormones in cognitive functioning in women’s mental health and illness. Caroline has over 100 publications that have contributed to a better understanding of cognition in mental health and mental illness. She has advocated for a better understanding of symptoms of brain fog during menopause and developing cognitive strategies to help people maximise their cognitive function.
This longitudinal, observation study commenced in 2019 and tracks menstrual cycle, mood and cognition (including neurophysiological markers such as eye tracking) in healthy women and women with premenstrual mood disorders, including women with premenstrual dysphoric disorder across two menstrual cycles. Biological samples are collected to determine relationships between hormones and cognition and store samples for later genetic, epigenetic and proteomic analyses.
There are several sub-studies built into this larger project that broadly seeks to better understand and characterise how mood and cognition are related to hormone fluctuations across the menstrual cycle, with a focus on understanding premenstrual mood disorders.
This research area seeks to better understand the perceived experience of menopausal ‘brain fog’ and characterise objective cognitive change across natural menopause transition, as well as during surgical menopause (for example in women who have their ovaries removed to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer).
Projects in this space include:
• MENO_COG : a longitudinal study to assess cognitive changes across the menopause transition and learn about which lifestyle factors improve or predict brain fog.
• EM_COG : Longitudinal study examining the mood and cognitive changes that can occur following surgical menopause prior to the age of natural menopause (e.g. in women who are at high risk of ovarian cancer).
• Cognitive Resources for women during menopause: This project is developing and evaluating a cognitive tool kit for women to help them maximise their cognition during menopause.
There are clear sex differences in the prevalence and presentation of ADHD. There also appears to be relationships between hormonal changes during life’s reproductive stages and ADHD, although research is very limited. This series of studies is exploring how ADHD symptoms and experiences change across different life stages for women, as well as exploring the associations between sex hormones, neurotransmitter levels (such as dopamine and serotonin) and ADHD symptoms.
Cognitive training in women’s Mental Health COGtrain is an 8-week cognitive training program (COGtrain) targeting cognitive symptoms experienced by women with mental ill health. COGtrain was developed through a collaboration between HER Centre Australia and the Lisa Thurin Women’s Health Centre, Cabrini Health, funded through Perpetual Trustees. The program combines psychoeducation about cognition, with cognitive training strategies to improve memory; attention; working memory; and higher-level organisation and decisionmaking. Phase 1 of the project (developing COGtrain) is complete. Phase 2 is a clinical trial to evaluate the effectiveness of COGtrain and this clinical trial will be run through the Lisa Thurin Women’s Health Centre, Cabrini Health during 2024.
2023 Students
Elyssa Osianlis
Research Area: ADHD in women and people assigned female at birth across the lifespan.
Tasmia Islam
Research Area: The prevalence of polycystic ovary syndrome in females with borderline personality disorder, and its effect on cognition.
2023 Volunteers
Richard Song (Alfred Health)
Tahlia Selzer
Conferences Presentations
• Asia-Pacific Conference on Women’s Mental Health Conference, Melbourne, Australia, Oral, Theta Burst Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation to Treat Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder – An Open Label Pilot Study
• Alfred Week, Alfred Hospital, Melbourne Australia, Poster, Theta Burst Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation to Treat Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder – An Open Label Pilot Study
Biography
Dr Elizabeth Thomas completed her PhD in 2019 at Monash University’s
Dr Elizabeth Thomas
Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre (MAPrc). Post-PhD, Elizabeth assumed leadership roles, managing the Women’s Mental Health Team at MAPrc (2019-2020) and serving as Research Trial Manager at MAPrc/ Epworth Centre for Innovation in Mental Health (2020-2022). Elizabeth is now a Research Fellow in the Department of Psychiatry at Monash University and her role as the Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Research Unit manager at MAPrc. As the TMS Research Unit manager, Elizabeth oversees diverse research projects across populations such as depression, PMDD and anorexia nervosa.
In her Research Fellow role, Elizabeth specialises in cognitive neuroscience, with interests in cognition, brain stimulation, and women’s mental health. Elizabeth’s scientific contributions have been recognized with several early career research awards, and was the semi-finalist for the prestigious 7News Victoria Young Achiever Leadership Award in 2020 and 2021. She has over 25 publications and has presented at over 30 international and national conferences in the areas of TMS, mental health, and/or cognition. Her current research is focused on improving cognitive symptoms using TMS across a range of mental health disorders. Her work not only
contributes to current knowledge, but also paves the way for continuous advancements in improving patient outcomes in cognitive performance and overall quality of life.
Elizabeth is dedicated to enhancing our understanding and treatment of cognitive deficits in mental health. The treatment of cognitive impairments in mental health remains a significant challenge, highlighting the necessity for ground breaking research in this area. Traditional psychiatric treatments often focus more on visible symptoms like mood disturbances, while cognitive deficits in areas such as memory, attention, and decision-making are not adequately addressed and often respond poorly to existing treatments. This oversight leads to persistent functional difficulties for patients, severely impacting their daily lives and overall well-being. The lack of in-depth understanding of the neural underpinnings of cognitive functions further hampers the development of targeted, individualized therapies. Innovative research approaches, such as (TMS), are therefore crucial as they can help improve our understanding of cognitive processes in mental health and enhance treatment outcomes through more effective and personalised therapies.
2023 Students
Haniya Al-Azzawi
Research Area: The association between depression and the oral contraceptive pill.
Elle Haryanto
Research Area: The relationship between childhood trauma and empathy in adults with borderline personality disorder.
Tasmia Islam
Research Area: The prevalence of polycystic ovary syndrome in females with borderline personality disorder, and its effects on cognition.
Volunteers
Alex Zhang
Charles Lin
Dr Yida Zhou
Dr Summer Woo
2023 Grants and Awards:
• 1 year, $10,000, Women’s Health Research Translation and Impact Network (WHRTN), Early-Mid Career Researcher Funded Award 2023
• $400, Monash Alfred Psychiatry research centre Prize for
BSc BHSc(Hons) PhD
Research Fellow, Research Manager of HER Centre Australia
Psychiatry Research, Alfred Research Week
• ~$100,000, Samphire Neuroscience, A Pilot Study Using Menstrual Neuromodulation Therapy to Treat Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
Inaugural Asia-Pacific Women’s Mental Health Conference, Melbourne, Oral, Memantine: A Novel Treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder Biography
Dr Mu is a research fellow at HER Centre Australia (HCA), Monash University. She is an interdisciplinary neuroscientist working between the fields of cognitive neuroscience and clinical psychiatric research, with expertise in electroencephalography (EEG).
Dr Mu was awarded her PhD from Swinburne University and her PhD research utilised EEG to better understand the early visual processing in the broader autistic phenotype. Her work showed that neurotypical adults displaying higher autistic
tendencies demonstrate similar electrophysiological signatures to those with clinical ASD and the promise of oxytocin in improving attention in ASD. Her thesis was nominated for the Iain Wallace Medal.
She is an early career representative on numerous committees incl. cochair of the Central Clinical School EMCR Committee, Central Clinical School Executive Committee, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Science ECR Committee, and Biological Psychiatry Australia. She is also on the scientific and local organising committee for the 2023 Asia-Pacific Conference on Women’s Mental Health.
Her current, long-term research goals are to understand the neurobiology of borderline personality disorder (BPD). With a specific emphasis, she directs her efforts towards unravelling the complex interplay between trauma and the development of BPD. Her aim is not only to gain deeper insights into the origins and mechanisms of this disorder but also to challenge prevailing stigmas and misconceptions surrounding it. Through her work, she endeavours to pave the way for a more
comprehensive understanding of BPD, ultimately aiming to foster improved approaches to treatment and support for those affected.
Featured Projects
Title: Are hormonal contraceptives linked to depressed mood? A large observational study
Investigators: Dr Eveline Mu, Prof. Jayashri Kulkarni
Funding Source: WHRTN, EarlyMid Career Researcher Funded Award 2023
Description: The physical risks associated with taking hormonal contraceptives are well described, however, less is known about the psychological effects. We aim to conduct an Australian first observational trial of approx. 300 women who have or are taking hormone contraception and compare the average mood and affect ratings of women using different types of contraception. We will be comparing users of oral contraceptive medications with users of other, non-oral, forms of hormonal contraception and with women who do not use any form of hormonal contraception. The details of their mental health now and past will be collected to produce an assessment of the most to least depressive contraception. Furthermore, we wish to establish whether there exists a subpopulation(s) of women who are more vulnerable to experiencing a lowering of mood following the administration of a hormonal contraceptive. The findings from this study will then
be used for the dissemination and education of women and healthcare professionals to allow for high-quality family planning.
Current Status: Active
Title: A randomised double-blind placebo-controlled investigation of adjunctive memantine in the treatment of symptoms of complex trauma disorder
Investigators: Prof. Jayashri Kulkarni, Dr Eveline Mu, A/Prof Caroline Gurvich
Funding Source: Wolinski Foundation, NHMRC Investigator Grant (JK)
Description: Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (also known as BPD) is a serious, highly prevalent, stigmatised mental illness with no established biological understanding or effective treatment. Despite the high prevalence, economic impost and individual suffering, biological research in cPTSD remains in its infancy. A new approach with a new treatment option is urgently needed. A way forward is to view cognitive disturbance in cPTSD as underpinning all of the key symptoms including emotional instability, aggression, impulsivity, dissociation, as well memory and learning impairments. The glutamatergic system, in particular, the N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA) subtype receptor, is increasingly recognised for its role in cPTSD, with recent neurobiological research linking NMDA neurotransmission dysfunction (overactivity) to cPTSD symptomatology. Memantine is a NMDA antagonist that has been used to improve cognition in Alzheimer’s disease.
Current status: Active
Title: A Pilot Study Investigating the Efficacy of Menstrual Neuromodulation Therapy to Treat Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
Investigators: Dr Eveline Mu, Prof. Jayashri Kulkarni
Funding Source: Samphire Neuroscience
Description: The study aims to evaluate the efficacy of the Samphire Headband device in treating the symptoms of PMDD. PMDD, a DSM-5 condition that is commonly experienced by women of reproductive age during the late luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, has limited treatment options available. The Samphire Headband device uses cranial electrotherapy stimulation (CES) to provide neuromodulation and alleviate the symptoms associated with PMDD.
Mahak Gera
Biography
Dr. Eva Gregertsen is a dedicated and passionate research psychologist with a specialisation in eating disorders, having recently completed her PhD at University College London in the UK. Her PhD research focused on advancing our understanding of anorexia nervosa through a multisite longitudinal clinical study which explored pre-treatment patient predictors of treatment outcome, with a special focus on the egosyntonic (valued) nature of the illness and how this impacts ambivalence towards recovery.
In the interest of advancing knowledge in the field, Eva has published several papers on eating disorders. Notably, she has authored an invited article for the National Eating Disorders Information Centre in her area of expertise, egosyntonicity in anorexia nervosa. This publication underscores her desire to dispel myths surrounding eating disorders and articulate nuanced concepts with clinical translations in a manner accessible to both professionals and the wider public.
Recovery from an eating disorder can be a long and challenging process, taking between one and six years on average, while up to 25% of those affected experience a severe and long-term illness. While cognitivebehavioural therapy is the current ‘gold standard’ for treating eating disorders, the evidence suggests that existing treatments are, at best, only moderately effective, with less than half of those who receive treatment for eating disorders achieving recovery. As such, there is an urgent need for novel treatments, particularly in anorexia nervosa, the deadliest of all psychiatric disorders.
Eating disorders result from a complex interplay of both psychological and biological factors. However, research and development of treatments have predominantly focused on the psychological aspects, leaving a significant gap in addressing the biological components that contribute to the development of eating disorders. To fill this gap, my area of research investigates the effects of ground-breaking, biologically-based treatments on symptoms of anorexia nervosa, including hormonal and pharmacological treatments.
Title: A Double-Blinded Randomised Placebo-Controlled Trial of Estradiol for the Treatment of Women with Anorexia Nervosa
Investigators: Prof Jayashri Kulkarni, Dr. Romi Goldschlager, Dr. Eveline Mu, Dr. Qi Li, Dr. Eva Gregertsen, Ms. Karen Goldschlager, Ms. Cindy Yu
Funding Source: David and Angela Li, Sherry Li, The Connolly-Kinsella Foundation, One in Five, Swisse
Description: Growing evidence supports the use of estradiol, a hormone, as a treatment for AN. Estradiol’s ability to correct hormonal imbalances may improve various aspects of AN, including mood, cognitive function, bone health, and appetite control. This clinical trial is designed to evaluate the effectiveness of estradiol, administered via a 50mcg transdermal patch, in alleviating AN symptoms compared to placebo. Fifty participants diagnosed with AN will be recruited to the study, receiving treatment over a three-month period. Primary outcome measures include change in BMI and change in eating disorder symptoms.
Current Status: Awaiting ethical approval
Title: A Double-Blinded, 5-Arm, Covariate-Adjusted Adaptive Clinical Trial for the Treatment of Anorexia Nervosa
Investigators: Prof Jayashri Kulkarni, Dr. Romi Goldschlager, Dr. Eveline Mu, Dr. Leo Chen, Mr. Anthony de Castella, Ms Emmy Gavrilidis, Prof. Richard Newton, Dr. Eva Gregertsen, Ms. Karen Goldschlager, Ms. Cindy Yu
Funding Source: David and Angela Li, Sherry Li, The Connolly-Kinsella Foundation, One in Five, Swisse
Description: Patients with AN exhibit psychiatric and cognitive symptoms that are similar to those associated with disruptions in neurotransmitters like GABA, glutamate, and NMDA. There are several drugs, including memantine, brexpiprazole, and zinc, that target these neural processes. While these medications have been deemed safe for human use, their efficacy in treating AN remains underexplored. Investigating these drugs could open new possibilities for improving outcomes in this complex and often persistent disorder. This study is a single-site, blinded, and covariate-adjusted adaptive clinical trial with the aim to assess whether these repurposed medications (brexpiprazole, memantine, and zinc) can effectively treat AN. 100 participants will be recruited to the study, receiving treatment over a three-month period. Primary outcome measures include change in BMI and change in eating disorder symptoms.
Current Status: Awaiting ethical approval
Title: Sodium Butyrate for Anorexia Nervosa – An Open-Label Proof of Concept Study
Investigators: Prof Jayashri Kulkarni, Dr. Romi Goldschlager, Dr. Eveline Mu, Dr. Leo Chen, Mr. Anthony de Castella, Ms Emmy Gavrilidis, Prof. Geoff Cleghorn, Mr Con Efstathis, Prof. Richard Newton, Dr. Eva Gregertsen, Ms. Karen Goldschlager, Ms. Cindy Yu
Funding Source: David and Angela Li, Sherry Li, The Connolly-Kinsella Foundation, One in Five, Swisse
Description : There is growing evidence to suggest that disruptions in the gut microbiota may play a role in the pathophysiology of several psychiatric disorders, including the development and maintenance of AN. Sodium butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid and dietary supplement, specifically targets the gut microbiome. While it has been confirmed safe for human use, its potential effectiveness in treating AN remains insufficiently explored. The current study is a single-site, proof of concept open-label trial assessing the efficacy of sodium butyrate in treating AN. 15 participants with AN will be recruited and receive treatment over a period of three months. Primary outcome measures include change in BMI and change in eating disorder symptoms.
Current Status: Awaiting ethical approval
BA, GDipPsych, PhD
Research FellowTMS Clinical Trials Unit
Dr Cerins is a Research Fellow in the Clinical TMS Research Unit at the Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre where he is seeking to develop new brain stimulation protocols that will enhance the efficiency and efficacy of brain stimulation treatments. His PhD research investigated the neurophysiology of brain stimulation, and how brain change might be supported by stimulating distinct brain circuits. Dr Cerins’ research utilises direct experimental work, pharmacological perspectives, and mathematical modelling of brain circuits to understand how the brain changes in response to stimulation. This understanding will be used to develop and trial novel brain stimulation techniques that might have greater therapeutic impact in treating psychiatric conditions. Dr Cerins has worked across TMS clinical trials for cervical dystonia and autism spectrum disorder where he trained research staff in MRI-derived precision targeting of TMS treatment. In the TMS Clinical Research Unit Dr Cerins works on clinical trials in depression, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and Anorexia Nervosa.
B.Eng, M.Eng and PhD (Statistics) Biostatistician
Dr Qi Li has completed his PhD in statistics at the Science School of RMIT University in 2021. He works as a research fellow and head of biostatistics at the HER Centre, Australia from 2022. Dr Li provides biostatistical, health analytics and decision making to pre-clinical, clinical, imaging, and health service studies, and works extensively with statistical modelling, especially the development and application of machine learning approaches. Dr Li also worked as MRI imaging research office at The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health from 2011 to 2016.
Dr Li has obtained a deep understanding of machine learning modelling techniques and relevant applications in pre-clinical and clinical settings. His recent research work has identified the requirements of clinical system in the development of machine learning models for patient classification and treatment prediction which is suitable for clinical use and can be merged into clinical systems without bringing any negative effects in the areas of neurology, general
surgery and radiology. He has also developed several machine learning models for clinical diagnosis use and relevant performance validation approaches. His research also has explored how clinical data characteristics, such as sample size, variable quantity, variable quality and missing data, influence machine learning model performance.
In his current role, Dr Li leads protocol development, design of statistical analysis plan and data in several large international clinical trials and to a number of smaller pre-clinical, clinical, imaging, and service evaluation studies in the areas of neuroscience and psychiatry.
Emmy Gavrilidis
Trials Manager
MAPrc, HER Centre Australia, Psychopharmacology Research Team
Emmy Gavrilidis, Clinical Trials Manager at HER Centre Australia, has been a pivotal force in advancing women’s mental health since joining in 2007. Emmy played a crucial role in designing protocols and ensuring ethical standards for the transformative Li-THRED clinical trials. With extensive experience in scientific research and a background in coordinating large international trials, Emmy is a linchpin in the strategic and operational processes, ensuring the continuous growth and triumph of the Centre across research, teaching, learning, and engagement.
Emmy Gavrilidis is the Clinical Trials Manager at MAPrc and HER Centre Australia Ms Gavrilidis developed her skills in data collection and study coordination research methodology, protocol development and staff and student supervision. She has a strong career background in scientific research.
She has coordinated and managed several large international multicentre research trials, with recruiting centres from all over the world. She has extensive research experience and her role encompasses facilitating communication between collaborators, liaison with internal and external stakeholders, preparation of research grants, manuscripts, reports and ethics submissions, promotions and budgeting and financial management.
She is also a key player in the organising committee for a number of national and international conferences. She is responsible for supporting strategic and operational processes with the goal to ensure growth and success of, teaching, learning and engagement. She is also a liaison for philanthropic, industry and partner collaborations at HER Centre Australia and is responsible for providing research progress reports to these bodies.
Dr Nadya Lazareva
MD BMedSc BBiomedSc
Medical Officer
MAPrc, HER Centre Australia
Nadya joined the HCA team in 2023 as she is passionate about research and issues impacting women. Her work involves providing medical input across a range of trials at HCA, including investigator-initiated and sponsored pharmacotherapy trials for depression, psychotic illness and complex trauma disorder. In March 2023 Nadya was part of the team that travelled to Canberra for the Parliamentary Forum, advocating for the prioritisation of Women’s Mental Health. She served as a session chair at the APAC Women’s Mental Health Conference and was actively involved in the early development of THRED. Nadya has spent the year working at the Women’s Mental Health clinic, where she gained invaluable experience. In addition to her medical career, she is deeply passionate about student education.
Dr Jess Chiodo-Reidy
BSc/BA MD
Research Medical Officer
Jess Chiodo-Reidy is a junior doctor passionate about Psychiatry, with a particular interest in women’s mental health. She is a research medical officer at MAPrc/HCA and loves getting to know her patients and ensuring their clinical trial experience leaves them feeling cared for, valued and heard. In 2023 she was fortunate to work with the TMS Clinical Trials Unit in their world-leading studies.
Dr Romi Goldschlager plays a crucial role in guiding the clinical aspects of our research, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of both the medical and psychological landscape of eating disorders. Dr Goldschlager is a psychiatrist with a special interest in complex trauma, eating disorders, addiction psychiatry, chronic pain, psycho-oncology, psychotherapy, and family therapy. Romi has previously worked on the eating disorder unit at John Cade level 2, has looked after several patients with eating disorders in a CL setting (consultation Liaison/medical setting) and is currently working with the Alfred/Ramsey partnership’s Statewide Women’s Mental Health Service to develop an Hospital in the Home program for adult patients with eating disorders. Dr Goldschlager is responsible for protocol development, medical and psychiatric screening and monitoring of participants to ensure participant safety, as well as driving important research efforts within the Li-THRED initiative.
Research Nurse Prue Read
Bachelor Applied Science (nursing), RN
Prue works part time coordinating the ethics submissions, progress reports, amendments and site files for the unit. She also helps with nursing activities, ecg’s, venepuncture, vital signs and general study coordinator activities across all the studies. She has established strong relationships with the start-up teams and the Alfred Ethics Committee to ensure efficient and smooth submissions. Prue has worked in clinical trials since the year 2000 in a number of different therapeutic areas coordinating trials, covering ethics, recruitment, and following protocol Procedures. Prue worked in London for 4 years in the major teaching hospitals in renal and other therapeutic areas before entering clinical trials at Box Hill Hospital.
Jacqui is a study Coordinator for the Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) and TMS trial as well as assisting with other relevant TMS trials. She is responsible for recruitment, data entry and acquisition, TMS administration, conducting cognitive assessments, eye-tracking and other relevant tasks.
NHMRC Ideas Grant: The Grandschools Intergenerational Learning and Living Campus –Research Scholarship Recipient
Mizan is a Provisional Psychologist working as a Research Psychologist for the clinical trials. He previously worked to support people with mild to complex mental health presentations in youth community mental health and private practice settings. His role at the centre focuses on conducting psychological and cognitive assessments for clinical trial projects on cPTSD, schizophrenia, and depression. Mizan has a particular interest in developing his skills to support people with eating disorders and has been actively engaged with Queensland Health’s Eating Disorder training programs previously.
Mizan also has a research background and has an interest in personality, social, and mental health research. He has been involved in
research projects exploring narcissism and social media addiction, academic burnout, intergenerational connections and individual differences, as well as adjustment experiences of Australian retirees and their impact on psychosocial wellbeing. His current PhD is looking at developing an evidence-based framework to improve ageist attitudes between youth and older adults by exploring their personality, culture, and motivation to engage. Mizan is passionate in personality research as he believes that understanding individuality allows for greater insight in supporting and working with people. He is also involved with research on body image and eating disorders at a volunteer capacity to expand on his passion in clinical psychology.
Amanda Karagiannidis
BSc (Hons)
Clinical Trials Coordinator
Psychopharmacology Research Team
Amanda commenced as a member of the Psychopharmacology Research Team at MAPrc, in 2023. She coordinates both sponsored and investigator driven clinical trials examining the use of novel therapeutics for the treatment of psychotic, mood and cognitive symptoms in men and women with schizophrenia. Amanda completed her BSc (Hons) at Monash University, achieving first class honours for her undergraduate studies. She was also recognised as the highest scoring honours student across the Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, and was awarded the Christina Lackmann Honours Medal and G.D Thorburn Prize for 2023. Whilst coming from a niche area of research in metabolic neuroendocrinology, her interest stem more broadly into the relationship between physiological biomarkers and mental health, as well as investigating novel psychiatric interventions and treatments for individuals suffering with serious mental illness.
BSc (Hons) Nutrition and Health Science, Grad Diploma of Psychology
HER Centre Australia and MAPrc
Marta is a Clinical Trial Coordinator for both pharmaceutical industry sponsored and investigator initiated projects. She is currently coordinating projects in Major Depressive Disorder. Marta is interested in holistic healthcare, well-being, mental health and nutrition.
Bachelor of Health Sciences
Clinical Trials Coordinator
Psychopharmacology Research Team Ebony Rauer
Ebony commenced her role as a study coordinator at MAPrc in January 2023. She coordinates clinical trials in cPTSD, BPD and depression. Prior to that, she worked as a research assistant working on trials in pregnancy and perinatal research. She is currently working on a trial investigating the use of memantine for treating symptoms of complex trauma disorder and another trial investigating the use of Estradiol for the treatment of women with cPTSD. She recently started recruiting participants for a new trial led by Deakin University, investigating the use of Metformin XR and Atorvastatin for treating symptoms of depression. Ebony’s areas of interest are Women’s mental health, nutrition and healthy living, mindfulness, trauma and mental health and cognition.
Karen Goldschlager
MClinPsych, BPsych (Hons), AdvDipPublSafety
THRED Research Assistant
Karen Goldschlager is a versatile Psychologist and Research Assistant whose expertise lies at the intersection of psychology, research, and health. With a primary focus on understanding the psychological aspects of eating disorders, Karen contributes valuable insights into the emotional and behavioural dimensions of ongoing research endeavours.
Before specialising in eating disorders, Karen played a pivotal role in health psychology and physical rehabilitation, co-running a multidisciplinary pain clinic, working with patients’ to deliver Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) based emotion regulation strategies and delivering psychological therapy in physical rehabilitation hospitals. Karen provided comprehensive care to individuals recovering from acute physical trauma and complex early trauma. This handson experience informs Karen’s approach, emphasising the integral connection between mental and physical well-being.
In the THRED research trials, Karen plays a vital role in the team’s success. She actively contributes to the trial formation, organising recruitment, outcome measures, data collection efforts and providing participants with supportive therapy. Karen goes beyond traditional research roles, offering psychological support and assessments for trial participants, fostering a holistic approach to understanding and addressing health challenges.
Research Assistant
Jasmine is a women’s mental health researcher with the Hormones and Cognition team at HER Center Australia. Jasmine is involved in several projects, including those investigating the role of surgical menopause on cognitive experiences and the development of novel training programs to improve mood and cognitive outcomes in clinical populations. Jasmine is also undertaking her clinical PhD candidature with the Neuroscience and Society lab at Monash University.
Bee Williamson
Diet. GDCouns. BHSc. BA.
Mental Health Dietitian
HER Centre, THRED Cindy Yu
Cindy, being the sole dietitian in the THRED team, is responsible for designing and conducting all nutritional assessments as part of the AN5 and Estrogen trials. She will help the team to determine the effectiveness of the various treatment modalities by assessing the intake of each participant at baseline and at week 12 of the trials. Throughout the project, she will work with the team to identify the nutritional requirements of each participant and further calculate their nutritional intake of several key nutrients to help identify any changes to their diet throughout the duration of the trial.
Cindy is an Accredited Practising Dietitian and Qualified Counsellor, having previously worked at MAPrc in the past as the Women’s Mental Health Clinic Coordinator. Cindy has a strong interest in helping her clients build a positive relationship with food by using intuitive eating principles and addressing underlying stressors and emotions related to food. With
her ability to employ her counselling skills in consultations, Cindy has a nurturing, calming and grounding approach, always striving to create a safe space with all her clients. With her experience and background in both mental health and dietetics, Cindy makes a great fit returning to MAPrc as the THRED Research Dietitian.
Bachelor of Creative Arts, Victorian College of the Arts
Certificate IV in Small Business Management, RMIT
Bee is a poet, designer and artist who has published over 20 books. In 2023, she had poems published in Perennial Poets anthology, and Sparx Issue 8 anthology as a member of The Society of Women Writers Victoria. Bee is Currently designing a large book of poems for Leigh Hay and previously designed a small graphic novel for artist Kylie Steinhardt. Her photograph was included in Journeys anthology by Poetica Christie Press. Bee filmed a multimedia speech for the APWMH conference. Early in 2023, she distributed The Frida Affect issues 1-3 which were originally ezines, made into hardcopy, full colour magazines. The Frida Affect is Australia wide, focusing on women who experience mental health issues and includes artwork and writing. This past year she has been completing 5 books, which include a second edition novella, a new collection of poems, a series of essays on mental health which is quite varied (including a TV script and playscript) and a magazine of fine art works.
Marie Iglesias
Executive Assistant to Professor Jayashri Kulkarni
Clinic Coordinator – Women’s Mental Health Clinic
Marie has a background in Business Management, having worked at Melbourne University for a career which spanned 30 years as a Business Manager and as a Purchasing Manager. Marie joined MAPrc in March 2020 as Executive Assistant to Professor Jayashri Kulkarni and in May 2022 also became the clinic coordinator for The Women’s Mental Health Clinic at the centre.
The Executive Assistant is responsible for managing Professor Kulkarni’s busy and ever-changing schedule, managing travel and events, assisting with the coordination of the Women’s Mental Health Clinic, managing patient appointments and providing support in all areas of administration.
Personal Assistant to Anthony de Castella, Receptionist
Robyn’s role includes Reception and PA to Anthony de Castella, who manages DCP, HER Centre Australia and MAPrc. She is delighted to meet many people that arrive at the Centre and welcomes them. She also arranges finance, arrange calendars and the annual conference. The role is variable and enables her to engage with many guests and staff which she really enjoys, as no day is the same.
B.SocSci (Hons)
Student Administrative Officer/MD Clinical Site Administrator Anne Crawford
Anne is the local Site Administrator for Monash University medical students. This role involves liaising between the University and Alfred Health, and providing Administrative Support to the medical students. She makes all of the necessary arrangements for the Year 4 and Year 5 medical students’ Psychiatry clinical placements.
Adoria Li
HER Centre Australia Gill McPhee
As a strategic communicator and ardent feminist, Gill is the driving force behind advancing HER Centre’s mission. Her robust background in marketing, events, and design brings an insightful understanding of human nature to the Centre’s communications. Recognising the importance of bridging the gaps between academia, science and the wider public, Gill plays a pivotal role in translating complex research and clinical findings into accessible language.
By fostering a collaborative ecosystem, Gill sheds light on HER Centre’s impactful health, education, and research initiatives, blending healthcare expertise with public engagement for tangible improvements in women’s mental health outcomes.
BBus (Entrepreneurship), Master of Cultural and Creative Industries
HER Centre Australia, MAPrc
With a diverse professional background encompassing business, finance, cultural and creative studies, Adoria oversees MAPrc and HER Centre’s portfolio of projects and events, educational courses and annual reporting. She assists with established and new strategic initiatives such as the management of MAPrc and HER Centre websites to facilitate the ongoing development and growth of the organisations. In liaison with executive and senior research staff, Adoria plays an integral role in disseminating new research initiatives to the lived experience community, health professionals and researchers. Adoria is especially passionate about women’s mental health and supporting the ongoing research into revolutionary and trailblazing initiatives of HER Centre.
Carolyn Breadon
Supervised by Professor Jayashri Kulkarni.
Thesis Title:Perinatal Psychiatry
Chen Zhu
Supervised by A/Prof Caroline Gurvich, Dr, Lizzie Thomas, Qi Liand Dr Shalini Arunogiri.
Thesis title: Cognition during menopause.
Harjit Surindera Bagga
Supervised by Caroline (Main) and Dr Shalini Arunogiri.
Thesis Title: Transgender mental health and cognition.
A.Prof Anne Powell (MBBS, BMedSci(hons), MClinEd, FRACP)- supervised by Professor Jayashri Kulkarni, A/Prof Caroline and Dr Lyndal Bugeja.
Thesis Title: The impact of burnout on the delivery
Emma Cholokians
Supervised by A/Prof Caroline Gurvich,Dr Leo Chen and Dr Lizzie Thomas.
Thesis Title: Impulsivity in Borderline Personality Disorder
Dr James Tranter, MPsych, MBBS (Hons), BMedSci (Hons), AFRACMA
Supervised by Professor Jayashri Kulkarni.
Thesis Title: Reputation and Reputational Risk in Psychiatric Practice
Kirsten Gainsford-
Supervised by Prof Kate Hoy (Main); Prof Paul Ftizgerald, Dr Aron Hill; A/Prof Bernadette Fitzgibbon and Caroline.
Thesis Title: Social Cognition in schizophrenia
Jessica Michael (BSc(Hons), BA/BSc)
Supervised by Prof Kate Hoy (Main); Prof Paul Fitzgerald, A/Prof Bernadette Fitzgibbon, Dr Manreena Kaur and Dr Eveline Mu
Thesis Title: Investigating neurophysiological markers of attentional control across the anxiety spectrum using electroencephalogram and transcranial alternating current stimulation
Dinuli Nilaweera
Supervised by A/Prof Joanna Ryan; co-supervised by A/Prof Caroline Gurvich.
Thesis Title: The Association between adverse events across the lifespan and later-life health outcomes
Tanya GilmartinS
Supervised by A/Prof Gemma Sharp (main); co-supervised by A/Prof Caroline Gurvich.
Thesis Title: Personality and Eating Disorder
Elyssa Osianlis
Research Area: ADHD in Women and People Assigned Female at Birth Across the Lifespan
Elle Haryanto
Research Area: The Relationship between Childhood Trauma and empathy in adults with borderline personality disorder
Laura Brulez
Research Area: ADHD symptoms across the menstrual cycle
Tasmia Islam
Research Area: The prevalence of polycystic ovarian syndrome in females with borderline personality disorder, and its effect on cognition
Haniya Al-Azzawi
Research Area: The association between depression and the oral contraceptive pill
Alex Zhang
Tahlia Selzer
Mahak Gera
Richard Song
Tahlia Selzer
Alex Zhang
Mahak Gera
Dr Yida Zhou
Bonin Sok
Summer Woo
Charles Lin
OVERALL, FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE IN 2023 WAS SOUND AND POSITIVE AND THERE IS CARRY FORWARD FUNDING WHICH ENSURES ONGOING VIABILITY AND FINANCIAL STABILITY FOR 2024 AND BEYOND.
JANUARY 1ST – DECEMBER 31ST 2023
Due to the interconnected and collaborative nature of Monash University Department of Psychiatry (CCS), HER Centre Australia and the Monash Alfred Psychiatry research centre (MAPrc), a single amalgamated finance report has been produced to cover the combined finances of the three entities. The above report contrasts financial activity for the most recent period reported in 2019 with financial activity in 2023 to enable a comparison of changes over time. Activities are reported in broad categories of income and expenditure.
Overall in 2023, revenue received was greater than expenditure by $170,301. The total amounts of revenue and expenditure overall were comparable with 2019. While income was greater than expenditure in 2023, the surplus cannot be considered as profit, as all funding received is committed to the various research projects and clinical trials being conducted. The variation in start and end dates across multiple grants and projects means carry forward funding will vary from year to year.
Overall, financial performance in 2023 was sound and positive and there is carry forward funding which ensures ongoing viability and financial stability for 2024 and beyond.
Competitive Research Grant Funding
In 2023 competitive research grant revenue was lower than in previous years. Competitive research grants are comprised predominantly of project grants and Fellowships from NH&MRC and ARC. Competitive research grants are extremely challenging to attain but play a critical role in generating funding for direct research costs for projects and trials. They also generate funding for indirect costs associated with conducting clinical research through a scheme called RSP – Research
Financial Report Summary
Due to the interconnected and collaborative nature of Monash University Department of Psychiatry (CCS), HER Centre Australia and the Monash Alfred Psychiatry research centre (MAPrc), a single amalgamated finance report has been produced to cover the combined finances of the three entities. The above report contrasts financial activity for the most recent period reported in 2019 with financial activity in 2023 to enable a comparison of changes over time. Activities are reported in broad categories of income and expenditure.
Overall in 2023, revenue received was greater than expenditure by $170,301. The total amounts of revenue and expenditure overall were comparable with 2019. While income was greater than expenditure in 2023, the surplus cannot be considered as profit, as all funding received is committed to the various research projects and clinical trials being conducted. The variation in start and end dates across multiple grants and projects means carry forward funding will vary from year to year.
Overall, financial performance in 2023 was sound and positive and there is carry forward funding which ensures ongoing viability and financial stability for 2024 and beyond.
In 2023 competitive research grant revenue was lower than in previous years. Competitive research grants are comprised predominantly of project grants and Fellowships from NH&MRC and ARC. Competitive research grants are extremely challenging to attain but play a critical role in generating funding for direct research costs for projects and trials. They also generate funding for indirect costs associated with conducting clinical research through a scheme called RSP – Research Support Program. For every dollar of competitive research funding obtained, the University receives a proportionate amount of infrastructure funding from the Federal Government. A proportion of this infrastructure funding is passed on to Departments to cover central overhead and operating costs. Monash University also supports research in a similar manner with a Faculty based internal infrastructure support scheme. Competitive Research Grant Funding received in 2023 related primarily to a large NH&MRC Investigator Grant held by Professor Jayashri Kulkarni (AM).
Funding for research in Australia is primarily via national and local funding schemes such as NH&MRC, ARC and government tenders etc. and via commercial relationships and joint ventures. This is quite different to other countries
such as the USA and Canada where philanthropy is much more prominent, especially via University and Hospital affiliations. Our department has invested considerable energy in recent years nurturing and developing relationships with philanthropic individuals and organisations who share our desire to make meaningful changes in the treatment and management of serious mental illness in Australia. We are eternally grateful to the David and Angela Li Family Foundation, the Kinsella Connolly Foundation, the Wood Foundation, The Cubit Family Foundation, One in Five Foundation, the Bluesky Foundation, the Alison Wolinski Foundation, as well as individual philanthropists Sherry Li and Ken Hall, who have all partnered with us in 2023 to financially support our work on specific areas of research and projects.
Commercial revenue represents funding received from companies including pharmaceutical or therapeutic device manufacturing companies. MAPrc has a large and thriving industry sponsored trials team known as the Therapeutic Trials Team (TTT), which undertook trials in 2023 in the areas of Major Depressive Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder and Schizophrenia. Revenue generated from these trials is held at Alfred Health and used primarily to cover staffing costs. Total commercial revenue in 2023 was significantly lower than previous years. This is partly due to coding of some previous contract research which is now coded as philanthropic grant revenue.
Grants awarded by Federal and State Government for research and other activities are captured under this category, as well as indirect government funding generated from the hospital and university operating budgets. Alfred Health provides rent and facilities support for the MAPrc premises at St Kilda Road. This makes up a portion of the Government / Institutional Grants revenue reported. Monash University receives infrastructure funding from the federal government based on research grant performance, higher degree supervision and teaching activities. The University pass on in full the infrastructure funding MAPrc generates through these activities to support operational costs. The University then applies levies at central, faculty and school level to cover institutional and overhead costs. These levies are reported under the category of institutional Overheads.
In 2023 HER Centre Australia convened the inaugural Asia Pacific Conference on Women’s Mental Health at the Langham Hotel in Melbourne. The conference was a great success and was attended by a total of 245 delegates. Profit from the conference is captured in this category, although salary costs of department staff involved in organising the event are only partially captured. Other revenue captured here is the registration fees for the HER Centre Australia Short Course on Women’s Mental Health. With competitive grants and other revenue streams becoming more difficult, the development of additional short courses and workshops will be a strategic priority for the department.
Partnerships revenue relates to revenue and expenditure on projects and activities conducted in conjunction with partner organisations such as Alfred Health and Cabrini Health.
Fundraising and donations are becoming an increasingly important and significant component of our annual budget, and are imperative in enabling our capacity to fund our clinical trials and research. In 2023 fundraising and donations made up 28% of our total revenue from all sources, which was a significant increase from previous years. As competitive government and other grants become harder and harder to obtain- and other traditional funding sources become scarcer, fundraising and donations will continue to grow in importance.
We are incredibly grateful to each of our donors and supporters, whether they have contributed $1 million dollars or less than $1 hundred dollars. Each of them are demonstrating their desire and determination to support us in improving the outcomes for people living with serious mental illness through the development of new and innovative treatments and to increase our understanding of a wide range of serious mental illnesses.
In 2023, our major donors were Angela Hong Li and David Chong Li AM, who through their family foundation, enabled the establishment of the Li Transformative Hub for Research in Eating Disorders (Li-THRED). Their substantial and generous gift was complimented by subsequent LiTHRED donations from Ms Sherry Li, the Kinsella Connelly Foundation and the One in Five Foundation. In partnership with Swisse Wellness, they committed a three-year gift
to enable the establishment of the One in Five Research Fellow in Eating Disorders. We also received substantial funding in 2023 from the Bluesky foundation as part of their ongoing 5-year commitment to supporting research optimising and improving access of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) in the treatment of depression and other mental health disorders, and pioneering the use of TMS in women’s mental health as part of HER Centre Australia. In 2023 we also received renewed funding from the trustees of the Alison Wolinski Foundation for ongoing research
traumatic stress disorder (cPTSD) –also known as borderline personality disorder. Another incredibly generous donor, the Mohr Family, who have been funding a trial of a new treatment in men with schizophrenia – The Damian Project – was received in 2023. Other generous donations were received from Mr Ken Hall (for research in women with bipolar disorder), and The Wood Family Foundation to support the staging of the 2nd Asia Pacific Conference on Women’s Mental Health, which will be held in October 2024 at the Chadstone Hotel.
Jeffrey Nathan Wolinski
The Trustees of the Alison Wolinski Foundation
Dorothy Jay Mohr
The Trustee for Blue Sky Foundation
David Chong Li AM
Angela Hong Li
One in Five Association Inc.
Wood Family Foundation
Ashley Arnold Fletcher
Catherine Young
Elizabeth Faulkner
Ken Hall
Viridian Foundation
Michael Adamson AM
Sherry Li
As we embark on a new year, our organisation will remain dedicated to the discovery of pioneering, groundbreaking solutions in mental health and paving the way for trailblazing and innovative research projects. Our mission is to further increase our clinical footprint, disseminating transformative research findings and trialling novel treatment options that can help improve the mental health of individuals from all walks of life. Together, we are breaking down stigmas in mental health, building collaborative support networks and igniting a ripple effect of inspiration that extends to families, the lived experience community, healthcare professionals and beyond.
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Gurvich, C, Thomas, N, Hudaib, A, Van Rheenen, TE, Thomas, EHX, Tan, EJ, Neill, E, Carruthers, SP, Sumner, P, Romano-Silva, M, Bozaoglu, K, Kulkarni, J & Rossell, SL 2023, ‘The relationship between cognitive clusters and telomere length in bipolar-schizophrenia spectrum disorders’, Psychological Medicine, vol. 53, no. 11, pp. 5119-5126. https://doi.org/10.1017/s0033291722002148
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DEPARTMENT OF PSYCHIATRY (CCS) & HER CENTRE AUSTRALIA