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Tell us a bit about yourself!  

I am a clinician-researcher, working as a cardiologist at Concord Hospital and Senior Research Fellow at The George Institute for Global Health. My family migrated from Sri Lanka during the civil war when I was two; medicine became both my vocation and a path to create a better life.

What’s your research all about, and what’s the most exciting part for you?   

My research focuses on key cardiovascular risk factors—ageing and blood pressure—across laboratory, clinical, and population health. I discovered a novel platelet phenotype in older adults, a potential new target to prevent heart attacks and strokes. I am also helping to build the global evidence base for triple single-pill combinations to simplify hypertension care, leading a trial integrating this strategy into a new model of care for stroke survivors. What excites me most is translating discoveries into real-world impact while growing my research program and mentoring the next generation of cardiovascular researchers.

Is there a recent achievement that you’d like to share?

In 2024, I was awarded ~$2.5 million MRFF funding to lead the nation-wide LOTUS trial, testing a triple single-pill combination with nurse-led care to improve blood pressure control after stroke. I was inspired after witnessing my mother-in-law’s stroke and its devastating consequences, driving my commitment to prevention.

As an ECR, what’s been one of your biggest challenges, and how did you tackle it?  

One of the biggest challenges as an ECR has been obtaining grant funding. Perseverance and self-belief are essential—apply widely, refine ideas, and work hard. My eventual success came from developing a strong concept, taking initiative to build a collaborative team of investigators, and working in a supportive environment. Having excellent supervisors who provided opportunities aligned with my skills was critical. Equally valuable was guidance from a mentor offering an unbiased external perspective, helping me prioritise goals and navigate setbacks. Together, these strategies enabled me to overcome barriers and progress my research career.

What activities keep you inspired and energised?  

My faith in God keeps me grounded and gives me purpose. Time with family and friends sustains me through the ups and downs of research. I also enjoy musicals, fantasy fiction, and comedy—reminders to laugh freely and keep joy at the centre of life.