MedTech Actuator 2021 Menzies Scholar: Marta Orlowska
MedTech Actuator Menzies Scholar Marta Orlowska is transforming her impact by investigating the molecular and metabolic basis behind time-of-day dependent heart attacks.
Marta Orlowska is a PhD Candidate in Biomedical Engineering at the Queensland University of Technology and QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute. She holds a First class Degree diploma in BSc (Hons) Microbiology and Biotechnology from Edinburgh Napier University with experience in biomedical engineering, as well as microfluidics and microfabrication.
Analysing metabolic fluctuations caused by the circadian rhythm to eliminate heart attacks
Marta is looking at time-of-day dependent factors that affect circadian rhythms and cause metabolic disorders and cardiovascular diseases. Circadian rhythm is a near 24-hour oscillation of all the natural processes happening within our body.
The primary function of circadian rhythm is to maintain bodily homeostasis. Therefore, disturbances lead to diseases whose severity and occurrence can be time-of-day dependent. The reasons behind this correlation are unknown and current models cannot address it, as they are unable to eliminate any of the two aforementioned factors.
“My project is looking to address this knowledge gap. Through the individual exclusion of the circadian rhythm factors, we are trying to find causes behind time-of-day dependent cardiovascular pathologies and how preventative methodologies and treatments against this correlation would help”.
Marta has been passionate and deeply interested in the cardiovascular system since her childhood. Having people close to her impacted by chronic fatigue and circadian rhythm dysfunction has given her a deep sense of purpose to create preventative methods and treatments against ischemia, one of the biggest causes of mortality globally.
“This project gives me the chance to undertake a number of my passions, including performing innovative research in my field using cutting edge technology, commercialising new discoveries and giving back to the community. It gives me a deep sense of purpose as I can be a part of innovative preventative methods and solutions,” says Marta.
Science, research commercialisation and entrepreneurship with the MedTech Actuator Menzies Scholarship
The MedTech Actuator Menzies Scholarship recipients embark on a four-month scholarship, where they gain knowledge from leading industry experts, work alongside Australia’s emerging healthcare entrepreneurs and receive mentorship from MedTech Actuator.
“I am excited about becoming an entrepreneur and commercialising technology to change the world. I’m eager to build on the skills and knowledge gained from my time in the MedTech Actuator Menzies Scholarship and continue to network and expose myself to more opportunities in the ecosystem,” says Marta.
The scholarship encourages the next generation of emerging health leaders to build strong foundations in commercialisation. In doing so, this program supports the scientific community’s capacity to bring innovation to the market by facilitating knowledge transfer from industry to scientists and researchers.
Marta was able to overcome project design challenges with guidance from the program, leverage product design sessions and her network to forge an improved final design. After completing multiple prototype designs, Marta strengthened her design vision and built a bioreactor with multiple application options.
“I had no previous experience with commercialisation processes, so learning about the whole journey and different options to finance a project was essential. The most beneficial aspect of this program is the network of like-minded individuals who are at different stages of a similar journey. Everyone is really keen to help out and be there for you, which transforms this program into a life-changing experience,” adds Marta.
The scholarship program exposes awardees to the ecosystem through intensive learning, networking, mentorship and coaching so that you learn about the journey behind translating research into a healthcare startup before embarking on it.
”Every person along my research journey has contributed to my life, career and successes. I have been lucky to get a great mentor through the IMNIS program as well as hands-on supervisors throughout my academic career,” says Marta.
Are you a future MedTech Actuator Menzies Scholar?
The MedTech Actuator Menzies Scholarship is an opportunity for scientists, researchers and innovators to explore the world of entrepreneurship, research commercialisation and MedTech, BioTech and HealthTech startups.
“Learn as much as you can about your product and the end goal. Be ready for anything that can come your way, as this pathway is not linear and there may be lots of hurdles, but it is worth it,” advises Marta for those starting this journey.
Applications are now open for the 2022 MedTech Actuator Menzies Scholarships. Find out more about the program and apply now.
You can also join MedTech Actuator Program and Community Coordinator, Makenzie Thomas for an ‘Ask Me Anything’ session on July 6. Register here.
Hear from previous Scholars:
- MedTech Actuator 2021 Menzies Scholar – Dr Anushi Rajapaksa
- MedTech Actuator 2021 Menzies Scholar – Dr Rowan Page
- MedTech Actuator 2021 Menzies Scholar – April Van Der Kamp
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The MedTech Actuator Menzies Scholarship is supported by the Menzies Foundation as part of their Entrepreneurship in Science mission.
