Supporting Healthier Generations Through Reproductive Science

The Reproductive Medicine research theme brings together a multidisciplinary team focused on understanding and improving reproductive health across the lifespan.

Our research spans molecular discovery, translational diagnostics and community-led programs to address infertility, pregnancy complications and early neurodevelopment.

By integrating laboratory science with clinical partnerships and culturally safe approaches, we aim to deliver practical solutions that enhance fertility, reduce risks during pregnancy, and optimise outcomes for mothers, babies and families. Our collaborations with clinicians, Indigenous communities, and global research partners ensure that discoveries translate into real-world impact.

Research focuses

Female Infertility and Reproductive Health

Investigating ovary development, oocyte health, and the impact of environmental factors including plastic exposure on female fertility.

Researcher: Jessie Sutherland

Key activities
  • Assessing impacts of environmental exposures (e.g. plastics) on female fertility
  • Investigating mechanisms controlling ovary development
  • Identifying pathways influencing oocyte number and health
  • Engaging with consumers to improve reproductive outcomes.
Placental Development and Pregnancy

Exploring how placental growth and vascular function influence pregnancy outcomes and developing strategies to prevent complications such as preeclampsia.

Researchers: Kirsty Pringle, Saije Endacott

Key activities
  • Investigating mechanisms of placental development and maternal vascular adaptation
  • Examining pathways driving preeclampsia and hypertensive disorders
  • Developing therapeutic strategies to improve pregnancy health.
Fetal and Neonatal Brain Development

Focusing on neurosteroid regulation of fetal brain development and interventions to reduce brain injury after stress or preterm birth.

Researchers: Jon Hirst, Hannah Palliser

Key activities
  • Examining neuroprotective mechanisms in late gestation
  • Investigating impacts of stress and preterm birth on brain development
  • Developing therapies to optimise neurodevelopmental outcomes.
Maternal-Infant Health in First Nations Communities

Partnering with First Nations communities to co-design culturally safe programs that improve maternal and infant health outcomes as part of the Gomeroi Gaaynggal study.

Researchers: Kirsty Pringle, Saije Endacott, Rebecca Vanders, Ashley Bullock, Amity Smith

Key activities
  • Delivering community-led breastfeeding and nutrition support
  • Co-designing culturally safe antenatal care models
  • Building capacity through health education and workforce development.
Fertility Education

Delivering education programs and resources to improve reproductive health literacy and informed decision-making across communities.

Researcher: Jessie Sutherland

Key activities
  • Developing fertility and reproductive health education initiatives
  • Implementing digital and school-based programs
  • Engaging communities through outreach and workshops.

Team members

Academics
Post-doctoral researchers, research assistants and managers
Postgraduate students
  • India Brooker
  • Siddharth Acharya
  • Veronica Botha
  • Kanchana Dassanayake
  • Brendan Crow
  • Ava Medley
  • Caitlan Dodd
  • Tia Smith