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 1 – “How Can Big Data Help Us?” — Ajay Konuri

PhD candidate Ajay Konuri set the stage with an engaging look at how large, anonymous MRI brain scan data sets drawn from collaborators all over the world can help us see patterns of disease that might not be obvious. By applying machine-learning algorithms, Ajay aims to predict disease progression and personalise treatments. His message was simple but powerful: the more data we share safely, the smarter our care can become.

Talk 2 – “Identifying Prodromal Cases for Future Disease-Modifying Trials” — Lachlan Churchill

Lachlan Churchill then explored the earliest, “prodromal” stages of Parkinson’s by evaluating brain scans from people at risk of developing Parkinson’s and related conditions.  His research seeks to identify people years before motor symptoms emerge. “Catching the disease early,” he explained, “is our best chance to slow or even prevent it.” His work lays vital groundwork for truly disease-modifying clinical trials.

Talk 3 – “The Relationships Between PSG and MRI” — Jack Anderson

Jack Anderson bridged two sophisticated tools—polysomnography (PSG) and magnetic-resonance imaging (MRI)—to show how sleep disturbances reflect deeper brain-structure changes. His findings may help explain why REM sleep has an important impact on cognition helping to predict who might be most at risk.

Talk 4 – “The Importance of Osteoporosis” — Dr Christopher Coppin

Dr Chris Coppin reminded everyone that Parkinson’s affects far more than movement. His work on osteoporosis and bone health highlights how reduced mobility and medication side effects raise fracture risk. Early screening, diet, and targeted exercise, he explained, can dramatically improve independence and wellbeing.