The Institute’s researchers shine at TSANZSRS 2026 annual scientific meeting
The Institute for Respiratory Health had a strong presence at this year’s Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand (TSANZ) and Sleep Research Society (SRS) Annual Scientific Meeting, held at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre from 27 to 31 March 2026.
The week-long event brought together respiratory clinicians and researchers from across Australia and New Zealand. The Institute’s researchers presented work spanning asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pleural medicine, cystic fibrosis and more, reflecting the breadth of research underway at the Institute.
A standout moment: Bianca Iacopetta wins the Ann Woolcock Investigator Award
One of the highlights of the conference was Bianca Iacopetta receiving a TSANZ Ann Woolcock Investigator Award. Bianca is a physiotherapist and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) candidate in the Pleural Medicine Unit, supervised by Professor Gary Lee. Her research focuses on the symptoms and functional impacts of pleural disease, including pioneering work on bendopnoea (shortness of breath when bending forward) in patients with pleural effusion and pneumothorax.
At the conference, she presented findings from the PLEASE-3 study, which could improve how clinicians assess and support patients following drainage procedures.
Dr Sanjay Ramakrishnan awarded the Peter Van Asperen career development grant
Dr Sanjay Ramakrishnan was awarded the 2026 Peter Van Asperen Career Development Grant by Asthma Australia at the conference, a wonderful recognition of his work in respiratory research.
Congratulations to Sanjay from everyone at the Institute and our Research Advisory Committee.
Research presentations from across the Institute
Several researchers presented their work at the annual scientific meeting. Associate Professor Vidya Navaratnam presented research on the place of death in people with pulmonary fibrosis. Professor John Blakey explored what good asthma management looks like in practice and how clinicians can better support patients to achieve it. Dr Ramakrishnan also shared real-world evidence on targeting small airways disease in COPD.
Clinical Associate Professor Doug Forrester, Dr William Nigole and Professor Fraser Brims also contributed to conference programs across the week, alongside Professor Gary Lee and Associate Professor Cecilia Prele.
A proud week for lung research in Western Australia
TSANZSRS 2026 was an opportunity for the team to connect, collaborate and share the work being done here in Western Australia with colleagues across the region. We congratulate all our researchers who participated.