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Queensland Cardiovascular Research Network (QCVRN)

Heart research

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Queensland Cardiovascular Research Network (QCVRN)

Strengthening cardiovascular research in Queensland

Launched by the Governor of Queensland in November 2015, the Queensland Cardiovascular Research Network (QCVRN) provides a framework to strengthen cardiovascular research in Queensland.

We offer members of the QCVRN the following benefits:

  • Eligibility to apply for QCVRN initiatives and support schemes
  • Foster multi-disciplinary collaborations
  • Networking and presentation opportunities
  • Building capacity through workshops, webinars and events
  • A combined voice for cardiovascular research advocacy
  • Attracting new funding for cardiovascular research in Queensland
  • Access to resources and tools developed by QCVRN members
  • Recognition as a QCVRN member to support professional development

Become a member

Members of the QCVRN share the vision of fostering a visionary, vital and connected cardiovascular research community in Queensland. Membership to the QCVRN is free.

Join the network

For more information, email the QCVRN team.

Queensland Cardiovascular Research Network Logo

Executive Steering Committee

The executive steering committee, chaired independently by Associate Professor Jonathon Fanning and Dr. Meegan Walker, includes representatives from the Heart Foundation, Queensland Health, and various research organisations. Its purpose is to offer strategic direction and leadership to the QCVRN.

  • Associate Professor Jonathon Fanning (Co-chair), University of Queensland
  • Dr Meegan Walker (Co-chair), University of the Sunshine Coast
  • Professor Zhiyong Li, Queensland University of Technology
  • Associate Professor Jason Peart, Griffith University
  • Associate Professor Joseph Moxon, James Cook University
  • Dr Saman Khalesi, Central Queensland University
  • Mrs Sheree Hughes, Heart Foundation
  • Dr Melissa Reichelt, University of Queensland
  • Professor Julie Redfern, Bond University
  • Mrs Melissa Hagan, Queensland Government
  • Dr Edward Bliss, University of Southern Queensland

Emerging Leaders Sub-Committee

Sitting under the Executive Steering Committee is the QCVRN Emerging Leaders Sub-Committee (established in 2024). The Committee represents the interests of the Early-Mid Career Researchers (EMCRs) of the QCVRN through the development and delivery of events and opportunities for QCVRN EMCRs and provision of advice to the Executive Steering Committee on EMCR related issues. Opportunities to join this Committee are advertised to QCVRN members.

  • A/Prof Jason Peart (Executive Co-chair), Griffith University
  • Dr Andrew Stephens, (EMCR Co-Chair) Queensland University of Technology
  • Dr Danielle Kamato, Griffith University
  • Mr Krist Feka, University of the Sunshine Coast
  • Dr Yuanzhao Cao, University of Queensland
  • Dr Antony McNamee, Griffith University
  • Dr Gursharan Singh, Queensland University of Technology
  • Dr Jennifer Dermer, University of the Sunshine Coast
  • Dr Sandra Parker, University of Queensland
  • Dr Callan Wesley, James Cook University

  • Ms Tahnee Downs, University of Southern Queensland

QCVRN initiatives

For more information about these QCVRN initiatives, please contact the QCVRN at qcvrn@qcvrn.org.

This is a Special interest group bringing together those with an interest in research regarding secondary prevention of cardiovascular disease (e.g. enhancing the effectiveness, quality, and accessibility of cardiac and/or heart failure programs and/or long-term self-management). We hope to work together to build capacity and collaboration between Queensland-based researchers and policymakers & clinicians to develop a strategic research agenda and support one-another in achieving research goals.

  • Funding status: Closed
  • Applications open: July 2026
  • Applications close: September 2026

The QCVRN PhD scholarship scheme has provided significant opportunities for the next generation of cardiovascular researchers. The three inaugural QCVRN PhD Top-Up Scholarships are awarded to students at any stage of their PhD candidature, providing $5000 on top of their university scholarship.

  • Funding status: Closed
  • Applications open: February 2026
  • Applications close: March 2026

The QCVRN Graphics support scheme assists QCVRN members with graphics design to improve visual impact of research findings and aid in science communication. Each eligible member can receive a maximum of $200 per funding round. We provide 20 schemes p.a to support a professional graphics artist to assist with infographics, illustrations, figures, graphical representations and images for grants, manuscripts, or presentations.

We provide CVRN members with discipline-relevant knowledge and upskilling opportunities throughout the year. By partnering with science and industry experts, we deliver regular webinars on member-defined topics to support professional development.

Connect with us

Follow us on LinkedIn to stay up to date with our grants, events and capacity building opportunities.

Annual Research Showcase and Networking Event

The QCVRN Research and Networking Showcases promote the impactful research of cardiovascular researchers and students from Queensland institutions. These annual events provide opportunities for multidisciplinary visibility and research communication across our network and among key opinion leaders.

2026 Research Showcase and Networking Event

In October 2025, we celebrated a decade of collaboration and innovation in cardiovascular research in Queensland with our 10-Year Anniversary Gala Dinner and Research Showcase.

We are excited to announce that our 2026 Research Showcase and Networking Event will be co-hosted with the Centre for Cardiovascular Health and Research at the University of Queensland on Tuesday 13 October 2026.

The theme for our event this year is Inclusion by design: Elevating equitable research to showcase research where equity has been at the heart of study design and drives equitable outcomes for everyone affected by cardiovascular diseases.

For more information and to register your place, go to our event page:

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Last updated02 April 2026

Last reviewed14 March 2024