UQ PhD candidate to advance stroke recovery

A University of Queensland researcher has received a 2026 Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship to advance effective and accessible stroke-recovery treatments to benefit Australians in regional and remote communities.  

Queensland Brain Institute PhD candidate, Chantelle Jackson is one of 16 postgraduates nationally to share in the $1.9million scholarship program, which supports emerging leaders working on major global challenges - from AI enabled healthcare to climate resilience and sustainable systems.  

Chantelle’s research focuses on a novel therapy using targeted brain stimulation to boost blood flow and enhance the brain’s ability to clear toxic waste after stroke. 

This work has the potential to significantly improve recovery outcomes and quality of life, particularly for Australians in rural and regional communities who often face barriers accessing traditional stroke treatments. 

The Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship is one of Australia’s most prestigious postgraduate awards, delivered in partnership with nine leading universities, including The University of Queensland.  

More information and the full list of recipients is available online.