Bringing Science and Community Together

The 2025 Public Forum of the Macquarie University Parkinson’s Disease Research Clinic, led by Professor Simon Lewis, once again brought researchers, patients, carers, and clinicians together for an inspiring evening of shared discovery. This annual event celebrates the clinic’s PhD candidates and postdoctoral fellows, whose work spans the full spectrum of Parkinson’s research—from big-data analytics to brain stimulation and quality-of-life interventions.

Professor Lewis opened the night by reminding the audience that “every meaningful advance in Parkinson’s research begins with curiosity and community.”

Talk 5 – “Adaptive DBS for Freezing of Gait” — Dr Eileen Gülke

Dr Eileen Gülke introduced the audience to next-generation adaptive Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) systems. Unlike traditional DBS, adaptive devices adjust stimulation in real time, responding to brain-signal changes that herald freezing episodes. Her research offers new hope for people whose gait problems have resisted standard therapy.

Talk 6 – “Ambulatory EEG for Freezing of Gait” — Dr Yanqiu Tian

Continuing the theme of mobility, Dr Yanqiu Tian presented her development of lightweight, wearable EEG systems that record brain activity during everyday walking. These devices detect the neural signatures that precede freezing, paving the way for portable biofeedback tools to prevent it before it starts.

Talk 7 – “Understanding Visual Hallucinations” — Anna Ignatavicius

Rounding out the session, Anna Ignatavicius tackled one of Parkinson’s most misunderstood symptoms—visual hallucinations. Through neuroimaging and cognitive testing, she is uncovering how attention, perception, and emotional networks interact to create these experiences. Her work not only deepens scientific understanding but also helps reduce stigma for those who experience them.