The Australasian Society for Stem Cell Research (ASSCR) is delighted to celebrate the tremendous success of our 2024 annual meeting, held over three inspiring days at the National Wine Centre of Australia in Adelaide. With the theme “Stem Cell Research: From Roots to Remedies,” the meeting highlighted the journey of stem cell science from fundamental discoveries to life-changing therapies. Attendees from Australasia and around the globe gathered to share cutting-edge research, foster collaborations, and discuss future directions for our field.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our members, whose ongoing dedication to the ASSCR community is the foundation of our success. We are also grateful to our sponsors for their generous support, which enabled us to deliver an exceptional meeting experience. A special acknowledgment goes to our distinguished speakers, including international guests and invited presenters, whose engaging and thought-provoking talks inspired us all.
We were thrilled to celebrate the achievements of the 2024 Metcalf Prize winners, Dr William Roman from Monash University and Dr Rhiannon Werder from the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute (LINK to Metcalf News Page). Their groundbreaking research exemplifies the exceptional talent within the Australian stem cell community. A special thanks to the National Stem Cell Foundation of Australia (NSCFA) for their continued support of our field through initiatives such as the Metcalf Prizes, ASSCR Travel Awards, and other critical programs that empower researchers and foster scientific excellence.
This year’s meeting truly embodied our new slogan, “Connect • Communicate • Collaborate”. The diverse program of outstanding presentations, engaging discussions, and networking opportunities showcased the power of collaboration to drive innovation. Set against the stunning backdrop of the National Wine Centre, the meeting provided an inclusive platform for meaningful connections and impactful conversations.
Congratulations to this year’s winners!
2024 Oral Presentation Winners:
Student category: Linxuan Jiang | University of Melbourne – Examining the neurogenic potential of enteric glia for the treatment of achalasia
EMCR category: Dr Chiara Pavan | Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health – A cloaked human stem cell-derived neural graft evades immune detection in humanised mice
2024 Poster Winners:
Student category: Sahel Amoozadeh | MCRI – AATD reshapes infection responses in human stem-cell models
EMCR category: Dr Lucas Ferreira | MCRI – NR2F2/COUP-TFII haploinsufficiency may lead to 46, XX ovotesticular DSD through the impaired regulation of bipotential gonad factors
We are also delighted to announce several important leadership appointments within the ASSCR. Please join us in welcoming:
A/Prof. Anai Gonzalez Cordero as the new Vice President. Her lateral move from Secretary means the position is open to be filled on a 12-month interim basis. Applications are now closed.
Dr Amy Hulme, from the School of Medical, Indigenous and Health Sciences at the University of Wollongong, as the new Professional Development and Junior Investigators Subcommittee Chair.
Dr Jessica Vanslambrouck, Team Leader and Senior Research Officer for the Kidney Regeneration Lab at Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, as the new Sponsorship and Industry Chair.
We also take this opportunity to sincerely thank our outgoing leaders for their dedication and contributions to the ASSCR:
Prof. Megan Munsie, outgoing President, for her exceptional leadership and vision.
Cameron McKnight, outgoing Professional Development and Junior Investigators Subcommittee Chair, for his tireless efforts in mentoring and supporting emerging scientists.
Dr Micheal Lovelace, outgoing Sponsorship and Industry Chair, for fostering partnerships that have strengthened the Society.
Finally, we extend our deepest thanks to the 2024 Organising and Program Committees for their outstanding work in curating this year’s program and ensuring the smooth running of the event. Your efforts have set a high standard for future meetings. Please visit the event website for a full list of the 2024 committee members.
Thank you to everyone who joined us in Adelaide and contributed to making this event such a success. We look forward to welcoming you again at ASSCR 2025 on the Australian Gold Coast as we continue to foster world-leading stem cell science together…on the beach!
