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Ministerial awards for cardiovascular research
Recognising and celebrating excellence in cardiovascular research
The Ministerial Awards for Cardiovascular Research are presented annually at the NSW CVRN Showcase and Ministerial Awards Ceremony to recognise and celebrate outstanding contributions to research in cardiovascular diseases, including diabetes, stroke and renal disease.
The 2024 Ministerial Award recipients were announced by the Hon. David Harris MP, Minister for Medical Research, at the NSW CVRN Showcase and Ministerial Awards Ceremony held on Thursday 27 February 2025.
Nominations for the 2025 NSW CVRN Ministerial Awards for Cardiovascular Research will open in late October 2025. Applications for these Awards are by nomination.
2024 Ministerial Award Recipients
Ministerial Award for Cardiovascular Research Excellence: Prof Sally Dunwoodie, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute
Prof Sally Dunwoodie is honoured for her lifelong dedication to uncovering the genetic causes of congenital heart disease. Her groundbreaking research has led to genetic diagnostic tests now available worldwide, revolutionising clinical practice. Prof Dunwoodie’s leadership and mentorship have also paved the way for the next generation of cardiovascular researchers.
Ministerial Award for Rising Star in Cardiovascular Research: A/Prof Sarah Zaman, The University of Sydney & Westmead Hospital
A/Prof Sarah Zaman is recognised for her pioneering work in women’s cardiovascular health, addressing equity in cardiology, and developing new strategies for the early diagnosis of coronary heart disease in women. Her contributions have positioned her as a global leader in the field.
Ministerial Award for Rising Star in Cardiovascular Research: Dr Mark Dennis, The University of Sydney; Royal Prince Alfred Hospital
Dr Mark Dennis receives this honour for his high-impact research on improving access to life-saving technology and advanced therapies for heart failure patients. Since completing his PhD in 2019, Dr Dennis has made significant strides in research and clinical leadership.
Ministerial Award for PhD Rising Star in Cardiovascular Research: Dr Tejas Deshmukh, The University of Sydney; The Westmead Institute for Medical Research
Dr Tejas Deshmukh is celebrated for his innovative research in cardiac repair and regeneration. Recently awarded his PhD, Dr Deshmukh is making vital contributions toward developing new, effective treatments for heart disease.
The Ministerial Award for Cardiovascular Research Excellence
The Ministerial Award for Cardiovascular Research Excellence was established in 2011 to recognise distinguished researchers for their life-long achievement and contribution to breakthroughs in cardiovascular disease.
The Ministerial Award for Rising Star in Cardiovascular Research
The Ministerial Award for Rising Star in Cardiovascular Research is open to early and mid-career researchers in NSW, up to 10 years post-completion of their PhD. This Award recognises researchers who are already making significant contributions to research in cardiovascular disease and are considered a “rising star” of the future.
The Ministerial Award for PhD Rising Star in Cardiovascular Research
The Ministerial Award for PhD Rising Star in Cardiovascular Research was established in 2023 to recognise research excellence in doctoral studies for a NSW researcher up to one year post-completion of their PhD or nearing the end of their PhD candidature.
Previous Ministerial Awards recipients
Explore the research careers of previous NSW CVRN Ministerial Awards recipients by selecting their names below to reveal their stories.
Professor Ben Freedman | 2023 Cardiovascular Research Excellence
A/Prof Khoon Lim | 2023 Rising Star in Cardiovascular Research
Dr Jessica Orchard | 2023 Rising Star in Cardiovascular Research
Dr Nelson Wang | 2023 PhD Rising Star in Cardiovascular Research
Professor Jamie Vandenberg | 2022 Cardiovascular Research Excellence
A/Prof Clare Arnott | 2022 Rising Stars in Cardiovascular Research
A/Prof Eleni Giannoulatou | 2022 Rising Stars in Cardiovascular Research
Professor Kerry-Anne Rye | 2021 Cardiovascular Research Excellence
Dr Melody Ding | 2021 Rising Stars in Cardiovascular Research
Dr Jelena Rnjak-Kovacina | 2021 Rising Stars in Cardiovascular Research
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Last updated13 March 2025