CHRO 2024
The Organising Committee for CHRO 2024
Chair: Prof. Barry Marshall
Biography
Prof. Barry Marshall is an Australian physician and Nobel laureate recognized for his groundbreaking work in the discovery of the bacterium Helicobacter pylori and its link to gastritis and peptic ulcers. His innovative research, along with Dr. Robin Warren, revolutionized our understanding of digestive diseases, challenging prevailing medical dogma. Prof. Marshall continues to actively contribute to healthcare by assisting people in eradicating H. pylori, thus helping reduce the risk of gastric cancer.
Co-Chair: Dr. Alfred Chin Yen Tay
Biography
Dr. Alfred Chin Yen Tay, an accomplished researcher, has made significant contributions to H. pylori research, particularly in Western Australia and China. Over the past 10 years, his work has advanced understanding and treatment, achieving a cure rate exceeding 95% for antibiotic-resistant cases. Dr. Tay’s commitment extends globally through training programs, fostering collaborations and enriching our understanding of H. pylori strains.
Co-Chair: Dr. Li Zhang
Biography
Dr Li Zhang is an Associate Professor at the University of New South Wales (UNSW).
Dr Zhang received her MBBS degree from Fudan University in China and PhD degree from the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom. Prior to pursuing her PhD, she worked as a clinician at China-Japan Friendship Hospital in Beijing.
Dr Zhang’s research has been focused on investigating bacterial species that are associated with gastrointestinal inflammatory diseases. Dr Zhang has conducted pioneering research on exploration of the role of Campylobacter species typically found in the human oral cavity in causing inflammation when they colonize the other parts of the human gastrointestinal tract. One such example is Campylobacter concisus, which has been linked to the development of human inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Her research has led to the discovery of novel bacterial plasmids and their roles in modulating the human mucosal immune system. The second area of focus in Dr Zhang’s research group is on Aeromonas species. Aeromonas species are emerging enteric bacterial pathogens, causing gastrointestinal infections with varied severity from mild self-limiting diseases to dysentery. Dr Zhang’s team recently made a significant discovery, revealing that Aeromonas species are the second most common enteric bacterial pathogens in Australia, with a unique three-peak infection pattern associated with patient age. Her team is currently investigating the sources of infection and examine the Aeromonas pathogenic mechanisms at the species level.
For more information about Dr Li Zhang, please visit https://research.unsw.edu.au/people/associate-professor-li-zhang
Dr. Eng Chua: Organising Committee member
Biography
Dr. Eng Chua joined Nobel Laureate Professor Barry Marshall’s group, exploring Helicobacter pylori intricacies. Dr. Chua’s current multifaceted research includes improving H. pylori treatment, genomics, and understanding microbiota’s role in human diseases. His academic journey reflects a commitment to advancing microbial pathogen understanding for enhanced healthcare outcomes.
Liz Fu: Organising Committee member
Biography
Liz joined the Marshall Centre 3 years ago as the Senior Administrative Officer and Executive Assistant to Nobel Laureate Professor Barry Marshall. Collaborating closely with Professor Marshall and his team, she effectively contribute to a variety of strategic and operational aspects of the Centre, driving its mission forward.
Rachel Fu: Marketing and Communications Specialist
Biography
Rachel is an experienced creative marketing coordinator with a strong background spanning various industries. She has worked with big tech companies such as Apple and Microsoft, as well as leading educational institutions such as the University of Western Australia (UWA). Her success lies in her ability to create compelling campaigns that engage and resonate with target audiences.