Celebrating the brightest futures in medical research: 2025 Rising Star Awards

SVI proudly celebrated the next generation of scientific leaders at the 2025 Rising Star Awards.

Now in its eighth year, the Rising Stars Program has awarded more than $7 million in philanthropic funding to over 50 outstanding early and mid-career researchers since 2017.

Designed to accelerate bold, high-impact science, the program offers Fellowships to support researcher salaries and awards for high-risk, high-reward projects.

Thanks to the generosity of donors, particularly supporters of this year’s For the Love of Science dinner, SVI was able to fund six Rising Star Awards in 2025.

Rising Star Fellowships have also been awarded this year to Dr Haniyeh Hemmatian (Bone Cell Biology & Disease Lab), generously supported by Michael and Helen Gannon, and to Dr Steve Foulkes (HEART Lab), supported by the LEW Carty Charitable Fund.

Rising Star Award recipients included Dr Kylie Jevon and Dr Seigmund Lai (Immunology & Diabetes), A/Prof Liz Paratz (HEART Lab), Dr Sarah Henrikus (Genome Stability), Dr Martha Blank (Bone Cell Biology & Disease), and Dr Sebastian Bass-Stringer (Cardiac Regeneration).

The Rising Star Awards evening was filled with powerful moments, none more memorable than when recipients shared their personal stories, research ambitions, and the real-world impact they hope to achieve.

Guests had the chance to connect with these inspiring researchers during the post-event reception, where lab props and visual demonstrations brought complex science to life.

“By supporting these researchers, you’re not just funding science – you’re helping to change lives. The discoveries they make today will shape the treatments and cures of tomorrow,” said Karen Inge, Chair of the Rising Star Committee.

We thank every donor, partner, and friend who continues to believe in the power of young minds and bold ideas. Together, we are shaping a healthier future for all.