An expert in human immunology and transplant rejection is the winner of the Griffith University Discovery Award, announced last night (Wednesday 14 Nov) at the Research Australia Awards in Sydney.
Dr Motoko Koyama from the Queensland Institute for Medical Research (QIMR) accepted the prestigious award from Professor David Shum, Head of Research (Health), Griffith University at the 11th annual awards dinner.
The awards recognise achievements in the health and medical research community. The Griffith Discovery Award — one of eight presented on the night — highlighted the extraordinary work of an early career researcher whose academic endeavours had already demonstrated their importance.
Dr Koyama’s research focuses on immune system therapies which could improve the outcomes of transplant surgery.
‘Outstanding research output’
Professor Shum (pictured) congratulated Dr Koyama on her outstanding research output to date.
“Dr Koyama’s work is already making a significant impact in the area of immunisation and transplant rejection, with this expected to result in significant new knowledge and therapies.”
“The Research Australia Awards help to raise the profile of health and medical research across a broad range of communities in Australia.
“It is important to celebrate the achievements of the researchers whose discoveries pave the way for improved medical treatment and support into the future.
“Dr Koyama’s work is a primary example of this type of top-grade research.”
Dr Koyama is a member of the Bone Marrow Transplantation laboratory team and is one of six postdoctoral staff working under Professor Geoff Hill and based at the Royal Brisbane Hospital.
Early in her career she began making discoveries which boosted the positive results of transplants which she has continued at QIMR.
Dr Koyama is the fifth recipient of the Discovery Award which was introduced in 2008. The award has been supported by Griffith University since its inception.