Could artificial intelligence help detect disease before symptoms appear? Could it personalise breast cancer screening, predict sudden cardiac arrest or improve pregnancy outcomes?
Join SVI this National Science Week for Decoding the future of medical research, a free public event exploring how artificial intelligence is reshaping the future of healthcare.
Hosted by technology commentator Steve Sammartino, the evening will bring together three leading researchers at the forefront of AI-driven medical innovation, followed by a panel discussion and audience Q&A.
The event will be held at the Brenda Shanahan AO Auditorium in the Aikenhead Centre for Medical Discovery (ACMD) on Tuesday 18 August from 5.30-6.30 pm.
Meet the speakers
Associate Professor Davis McCarthy
Head of SVI’s Bioinformatics & Cellular Genomics Lab, Associate Professor Davis McCarthy is one of Australia’s leading bioinformaticians. He co-leads the AI-powered BRAIx program, which is developing more accurate and personalised breast cancer screening by predicting individual risk using advanced statistical and machine learning methods.
Associate Professor Elizabeth Paratz
Associate Professor Elizabeth Paratz is Team Leader of SVI’s Heart Exercise & Research Trials (HEART) Lab and a cardiologist at St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne. Her research uses big data, artificial intelligence and wearable technologies to identify people at risk of sudden cardiac arrest before tragedy occurs.
Associate Professor Fiona Brownfoot
Clinician scientist and obstetrician Associate Professor Fiona Brownfoot is pioneering wearable technologies and AI-driven diagnostics to improve pregnancy care. Her research focuses on detecting and treating complications including preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction and stillbirth, helping improve outcomes for mothers and babies.
Event details
Date: Tuesday 18 August 2026
Time: 5.30–6.30 pm
Venue: Brenda Shanahan AO Auditorium, Aikenhead Centre for Medical Discovery (ACMD), 27 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy
Cost: Free (registration essential)
Register now to hear from leading researchers using artificial intelligence to drive the next generation of medical discoveries.
