BioMed Link Conference brings emerging researchers together

This year’s student-led BioMed Link Conference, held at the Bio21 Institute, brought together around 80 biomedical science students from 15 institutions, creating a vibrant space for connection, collaboration and skill-building across universities.

With 40 presenters representing 15 different disciplines, including strong participation from SVI, the University of Melbourne, Hudson Institute and Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, the program gave students a rare opportunity to learn from a wide range of scientific fields and from each other. This cross-disciplinary focus is what makes BioMed Link unique, helping emerging researchers broaden their networks and perspectives early in their careers.

A keynote address from Professor Andrea O’Connor offered thoughtful insights into her leadership journey in biomedical engineering. Andrea is the Shanahan Chair in Frontier Medical Solutions, a leading researcher within the University of Melbourne’s Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, and a member of the ACMD Steering Committee. Her talk encouraged students to embrace both curiosity and courage as they navigate their research pathways.

Youth advocate Aayushi Khillan, City of Melbourne Youth Champion 2020 and one of the 40 Under 40 Most Influential Australian Asians 2020, delivered an energetic and inspiring address on the power of young voices in shaping the future of healthcare. As founder of Body Buddies, Aayushi highlighted how student-driven initiatives can create meaningful change.

A warm thank you to the student organisers, particularly Elissah Granger, Ben Wrobel, Nicole Sze Yong Nga, Milana Kuropatkina, Samira Chowdhary, Liz Cope, Justin Ho and Gavin McCluskey, and to everyone involved in delivering a successful and impactful BioMed Link Conference.

The success of this year’s conference highlights the value BioMed Link brings to both students and the broader research community. Organised each year by dedicated SVI students and collaborators, the event is a testament to their initiative, professionalism and commitment to strengthening Victoria’s biomedical ecosystem.

By creating a space where students from different institutions can come together and share ideas, BioMed Link supports the development of future scientific leaders and cultivates collaboration and community across the sector.