Event details
Thursday 3 September 2026
5:45pm arrival for a 6:00pm start
OFFMARKET Gallery
29 Airlie St, Claremont
To RSVP, please email rsvp@thekids.org.au
Meet the researchers
Dr Omar Elaskalani
Project title: Developing age‑tailored immunotherapies for childhood cancer
Research area: Chronic Diseases | Sarcoma
Immunotherapy works well in adults but often fails in children. Dr Omar Elaskalani studies why children’s immune cells behave differently and tire more quickly when fighting cancer. Using advanced technologies and paediatric‑specific models, his research aims to reprogramme immune responses to improve treatment effectiveness. His goal is to develop safer, longer‑lasting immunotherapies designed specifically for children, rather than adapted from adult cancer treatments.
Dr Ezra Kneebone
Project title: Supporting children and families formed through surrogacy
Research area: Wellbeing & Mental Health | Human Development and Community Wellbeing
Families formed through surrogacy are increasing, yet little guidance exists to support children’s wellbeing. Dr Ezra Kneebone studies how children born through surrogacy experience conversations about their origins and what support families find helpful. Working closely with communities, her research aims to develop practical, evidence‑based resources that promote healthy development, reduce stigma and inform child‑centred law, policy and practice.
Dr Kak Ming Ling
Project title: Reducing infection risk in cystic fibrosis through safer home water systems
Research area: Chronic Diseases | Airway Epithelial
People with cystic fibrosis can face added risks from bacteria that may be present in household water systems. Dr Kak Ming Ling’s research explores bringing hospital‑grade infection control into the home using advanced water filters and blue‑light technology. By reducing exposure to harmful pathogens during everyday activities, this work aims to lower infection rates, reduce hospital visits and improve quality of life.
Dr Tamara Veselinović
Project title: Improving early learning environments to support ear health and development
Research area: Strong Beginnings | Ear and Hearing Health
Ear disease and temporary hearing loss affect many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children during early development. Dr Tamara Veselinović focuses on improving sound environments in early learning centres. Working in partnership with communities, her research tests practical changes that support listening and language development, helping reduce developmental delays and promote lifelong learning.
Ms Anita Williams
Project title: Building community‑led solutions to combat antimicrobial resistance in children
Research area: Infectious Diseases | Epidemiology
Antimicrobial resistance threatens children’s health, particularly those most vulnerable. Ms Anita Williams will focus on engaging communities to understand attitudes, knowledge and behaviours around antibiotic use. By co‑designing solutions with families, clinicians and policymakers, her research aims to support lasting behaviour change and ensure antimicrobial resistance prevention works in real‑world settings.
