Perth Biodesign 2025
Training the Next Generation of Biomedical Entrepreneurs
2025 Program Directors
Chloe Goodred
Program Director
Chloe is an innovative and effective healthcare leader who is passionate about improving the way we design and deliver care to improve outcomes for patients, staff and the broader community. Chloe began her career as a physiotherapist and worked across a range of clinical settings before pivoting into clinical service design and project management. Her curiosity and passions for problem solving, diverse collaborations and systems thinking led her into the innovation and entrepreneurship space, co-founding a digital health startup and acting as a boundary spanner to bring public and private sector innovators together. Most recently Chloe led the Kaartdijin Innovation Centre at South Metropolitan Health Service, including establishment in 2019 – the first innovation hub for WA public health services. She has engaged, connected and empowered clinicians, technicians, corporate staff and external partners to dream big and innovate to solve problems. Chloe also has a keen interest in Aboriginal health, wellbeing and justice including volunteer work for Enterprise Partnerships WA, a not-for-profit partnering with remote First Nations communities to facilitate entrepreneurship and activate community-led enterprises that foster health and well-being. In particular, Chloe is working with Oliver Bazzani to deliver the Perth Biodesign Program and with Sandra Medic to deliver the Biodesign content for iPREP.
Oliver Bazzani
Program Director
Oliver is a Director of Biodesign Australia and Perth Biodesign, where he fosters the next generation of innovators to solve important problems in healthcare through technology. With broad experience across the Australian startup ecosystem, Oliver is recognised as a trusted advisor and investor to leading startups, accelerators, and venture funds. He also serves as a founding member of the WA State Government’s Innovation Advisory Board, judge at the INCITE Awards, and mentor to emerging founders, operators and investors. Previously, Oliver built businesses in the digital health and creative industries, designed the Australian Clinical Entrepreneur and Dream Venture Programs and led the Child and Adolescent Health Service's innovation function. His interest in healthcare was sparked during his participation in Perth Biodesign for Digital Health 2020, where he and his team sought to solve the problem of finding the psychologist that's right for you. Their solution, Charli, was recognised as the winner of the 2020 Perth Biodesign program and 2020 Freo Startup Fest. He also managed WA’s largest angel investor network, was Chair of Regional Arts WA, and was an ambassador for the West Tech Fest, which connects local startup founders and tech entrepreneurs with global thought leaders.
2025 Cohort
Kimia
Abdollahi
Kimia Abdollahi is a Biomedical Engineering student at UWA, originally from Iran. She has nearly three years of experience working in a medical device company in both the technical and product development teams, with a primary focus on defibrillators, patient monitoring systems, auto CPR devices, AEDs, and alternative air mattresses. She was responsible for troubleshooting and repairing devices, conducting training sessions for users and contributed ideas to improve and develop the products. Kimia has experience as a biomedical engineering intern in hospitals, where she was involved in the purchasing process of medical devices. This included comparing different devices to find the best options based on the hospital’s specific needs. Her main interest is learning about various medical devices—especially medical imaging technologies, dental instruments, and the application of 3D printing in biomedical engineering.
Vibhuti
Arya
Vibhuti Arya is an Indo-Canadian recently arrived in Australia to undertake the postgraduate Doctor of Medicine program at the University of Western Australia. She has a BSc. in Molecular Biology and MSc. in Physiology and Pathophysiology, from the University of Manitoba, in Winnipeg, Canada. Before starting medicine, Vibhuti worked as a Clinical Research Coordinator investigating the role of dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) in prevention of obesity and type-2 diabetes in indigenous youth. She brings clinical research experience in the fields of Cardiology, Oncology and Indigenous Health. As a future physician, she is passionate about leveraging patient experiences to bridge gaps in healthcare knowledge and innovation.
Carlos
Aya-Bonilla
Dr Carlos Aya-Bonilla is a scientist with nearly two decades of experience merging creativity and cutting-edge tools (e.g., cell biology, multi-omics and data analyses) to drive the discovery of clinically-relevant drugs and biomarkers, through innovative and translational research. His goal is to improve patient outcomes by advancing safer and more effective therapies and diagnostic tools that can change current paradigms in the clinical management of patients with inherited and acquired (cancer) genetic diseases. His research has focused on treatment resistance and metastasis in high-mortality cancers (lymphoma, melanoma, and leukemia). Recently, he led the Inflammation Program at a pharmaceutical company, advancing an RNA therapeutic for rare genetic diseases. Carlos has secured over $1.1 million AUD in competitive research funding and has led inter-disciplinary collaborations with academic and industry partners. Alongside his scientific background and acumen, Carlos brings leadership, a patient-centred mindset and a deep commitment to innovation, adaptability and teamwork.
Alexandra
Ayton
Alexandra Ayton is a motivated project manager, innovator and strategic policy advisor with a proven track record of delivering value, improving quality and inclusion, and driving meaningful change. Holding degrees in biomedical science and public health, her career has centred on designing and evaluating system-level health innovations, supporting public health surveillance, and translating complex data into strategic STEM policy and Defence-related advice at the state level. A values-driven leader, Alexandra is passionate about advancing inclusion, equity and access in both her personal and professional life. She is driven to create positive community impact and contribute to policy frameworks that deliver long-term societal benefit.
Jessica
Bennett-Hullin
Jessica Bennett-Hullin is a proactive organisational leader with experience in health, disability services and the arts. Currently a Senior Project Officer at the WA Country Health Service (Outpatient reform), Jessica has a proven track record of leading multidisciplinary teams, coordinating programs, reforming health services, as well as developing and facilitating workshops. Beyond her health sector experience, Jessica has a rich background in the arts, having worked as a set and costume designer. She continues to volunteer her creative talents to various community organisations and events. She holds a Bachelor of Humanities, Master of Public Health, Certificate IV in training and assessing, as well as a Graduate Certificate in Business Administration and Leadership, underscoring her dedication to continuous professional growth. Passionate about health equity, Jessica believes in leveraging innovation to enhance health outcomes for vulnerable and marginalised populations.
Jessie
Channel
Dr Jessie Channell is a medical doctor with a unique background in both medicine and geoscience. She holds a Doctor of Medicine from The University of Western Australia and a Graduate Diploma in Ophthalmic Science from The University of Sydney. Jessie has worked across a wide range of clinical settings—from metropolitan hospitals to some of the most remote regions of Australia—developing particular expertise in internal medicine and ophthalmology. She has led outreach initiatives with Lions Outback Vision and has played a key role in medical education, including curriculum development and tutoring. A published first author on several peer-reviewed papers, Jessie also secured a $50,000 grant to co-develop Eyeballs Made Easy, a gamified ophthalmology learning platform. Currently a General Medicine Registrar in Perth, she remains actively involved in clinical practice, research, and education, with a strong commitment to equitable, patient-centred care.
Alexandra
Cowan
Dr Alexandra Cowan is a medical doctor currently working with Royal Perth Bentley Group. She graduated from The University of Western Australia with a Bachelor of Biomedical Science in 2020, a Doctor of Medicine with Distinction in 2023, and is currently completing a Masters of Health Professions Education. Alexandra is passionate about medical education, healthcare innovation, and service improvement. She holds representative roles on the Postgraduate Medical Council of Western Australia and the Royal Perth Hospital Junior Medical Officer committees, where she advocates for initiatives that support the education and development of junior doctors.
Rebekah
Hinton
Rebekah Hinton is the Engagement and Communications Manager at the WA Life Sciences innovation Hub. Working for MTPConnect in partnership with the WA State Government and UWA, her role is key in developing and delivering events, assisting the vision and goals of the national MTPConnect team, and working across all areas of WA industry to increase participation, engagement, and innovation within the life sciences. Rebekah has worked at Curtin University and Innovation Central Perth on various Industry 4.0 projects. She graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Arts from Curtin University, majoring in marketing and creative writing.
Rob
House
With a degree in Electronic Engineering and Computer Science and a deep interest in healthcare innovation, Rob House brings a multidisciplinary mindset to the Biodesign program. His experience spans medical imaging, software-hardware integration, and mechanical systems. Rob currently works on the design of an equine cone-beam CT scanner integrated with a nuclear SPECT detector—aimed at detecting micro-fractures in racehorses before they become catastrophic. He was also part of the team that commissioned Perth’s first private cyclotron, navigating engineering, radiation safety, and regulatory compliance in a high-stakes medical environment. These experiences have honed Rob's ability to develop practical solutions, communicate across technical and clinical domains, and thrive under pressure. Time spent working in healthcare settings and engaging closely with medical professionals has deepened his appreciation for clinical challenges. He is excited to collaborate with a diverse team to tackle unmet clinical needs and develop impactful solutions.
Mahika
Jain
Mahika Jain is a first-year medical student at the University of Western Australia, with a background in neuroscience and data science from the University of Toronto (spreadsheets and synapses had more in common than she thought!). Having lived and studied in India, Canada, and now Australia, she is especially interested in how diverse, global perspectives can inform sustainable tech-enabled solutions in medicine. Mahika hopes to tackle challenges at the intersection of medicine, public health, and technology—especially how we can use data and design to improve access and outcomes for underserved communities. She has worked on projects ranging from AI health tools to global health education, and is always excited to learn from others. Outside of her studies, Mahika enjoys teaching, the occasional community project, and pretending to understand Perth’s public transport system while chasing sunsets along the coast. She is looking forward to learning together and creating impactful change!
Hina
Khan
Hina is a Senior UX Product Designer & Researcher with a decade of experience translating complex requirements into intuitive, human-centred designs. Her work spans design systems, user research, and workshop facilitation—always grounded in a belief that great design starts with listening. Having lived and worked across three continents, Hina brings a global perspective to her practice and thrives in cross-functional teams where collaboration turns ideas into real-world solutions. She’s passionate about creating experiences that not only meet user needs but align seamlessly with business goals. Outside of work, you’ll likely find her cycling, drinking coffee, building furniture or spoiling the cat. Her curiosity and craft are driven by a simple aim: to design with empathy and impact.
Lena
Kranold
Dr. Lena Kranold joined the School of Engineering at the University of Western Australia and Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research as Lecturer for Biomedical Engineering in September 2023. Her current research interests are in the fields of applied and computational electromagnetics, focused on biomedical applications, medical device development and MR implant safety and compatibility. Lena has an Engineering degree and Masters in Science, she earned her PhD in Electrical Engineering from McGill University, Canada, in 2021. Lena’s PhD research included the design of a wearable breast health monitoring system, RF radar, developing a prototype system, and conducting clinical trials. From 2021 to 2023, Lena joined ETH Zurich and the IT’IS Foundation as postdoctoral researcher studying the interaction and safety of medical implants exposed to electromagnetic fields and waves. She worked with industry partners and implant manufacturers on studies for regulatory submissions in the field of MR implant safety.
Pey Yen
Lee
Pey Yen Lee is a graduate from the University of Western Australia with a degree in Doctor of Optometry and Bachelor of Biomedical Science (Physiology major). Pey Yen is passionate about embracing new challenges to improve healthcare outcomes and committed to ongoing learning.
Laurence
Malloch
Laurence Malloch is a high-performing professional with a B.Sc. in Human Biology and Anatomy and a strong passion for healthcare innovation. Her career spans early-stage R&D in aerosol drug delivery, patient-facing roles in orthopedic medical device sales, and SME private equity investments across the mining, industrial, and logistics sectors, building a unique blend of scientific, clinical, and commercial acumen. Having lived and worked across Australia, France, and Ireland, Laurence brings a global perspective to multidisciplinary collaboration. While contributing to next-generation aerosol research at Aerogen, she developed a lasting passion for supporting the translation and commercialisation of breakthrough technologies. Laurence is excited to contribute valuable insight, energy, and a fresh perspective to Australia’s growing innovation sector through initiatives like the Perth Biodesign program.
Shreeya
Naroth
Shreeya is a UWA student and Fogarty Scholar studying a Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours), double majoring in Microbiology & Immunology and Public Health. She is passionate about health equity and holistic healthcare and interested in the transformative role of technology and artificial intelligence in health surveillance and modelling. Shreeya's commitment to equitable and holistic healthcare stems from her belief that health is shaped by a wide range of social determinants, particularly education. Through her volunteer work with Teach Learn Grow (a not-for-profit organisation that provides in-person tutoring to primary school students in rural and remote communities), Shreeya understands that education is a powerful tool that can enable positive health outcomes. Shreeya's experiences have significantly influenced her goal of becoming a well-rounded health professional and leader in the field. She is driven by curiosity and a sense of purpose, and aspires to contribute meaningfully to a more equitable healthcare system.
Joel
Peiris
Joel Peiris is a Fogarty Scholar studying Medicine at UWA. He has a fascination with the human anatomy, and strong drive for innovation in AI/robotics. His future specialisation will combine medical engineering and nanotechnology on the journey to becoming a surgeon. Inspired by the work of Australians like Mark Kendall and Paul Anderson and Cytophenix in WA, Joel sees the Perth Biodesign Flagship Program as a vehicle to develop entrepreneurial skills, consolidating all his STEM knowledge to focus on innovation and enterprise.
Aditya
Vashi
Aditya Vashi holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in engineering. Due to his passion in technology and research, he pursued a PhD in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering at Griffith University, Australia. During his doctoral studies, he contributed to cutting-edge research in digital microfluidics with potential applications in space and biomedical fields, resulting in multiple first-author publications in peer-reviewed journals. After submitting his thesis, Aditya joined Iyarn as a Research and Data Analyst, where he focuses on the integration and real-time visualisation of patient-generated data to support early intervention in the healthcare. He is driven by innovation, evidence-based decision making, and using technology to create positive change in society. He envisions simplifying advanced technologies to make them more accessible and impactful for diverse communities. His interests include research, data analytics, digital health, robotics, and technical writing.
Thomas
Walsh
Thomas Walsh is a Biomedical engineer with experience in medical device development across in-vitro diagnostics, surgical tools, and cardiovascular devices. He is skilled in multiple stages of the product lifecycle, from early concept development and prototyping through to manufacturing. Thomas has experience in program design and project management, with a focus on translating user and technical requirements into manufacturable products.
Emily
Woodward
Emily is a second-year PhD student in the Mitochondrial Medicine & Biology Group at the The Kids Research Institute, where she is developing new therapies for the treatment of mitochondrial disease. She holds a Master’s in Natural Sciences from University College London, during which she also completed an exchange program at The University of Western Australia. Prior to commencing her PhD, Emily worked in the biotech industry with her experience spanning both early-stage drug discovery and development of therapeutic programs, including work that led to FDA IND approval. This fostered her passion for precision medicine, translational research, and scientific innovation. Through the Perth Biodesign Program, Emily hopes to build on her industry experience, expand her interdisciplinary network, and develop the skill set needed to bring meaningful therapies to patients.
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