University of Wollongong Professor Caleb Ferguson has been recognized with the 2023 Tall Poppy Science Award for his outstanding contribution to stroke and cardiovascular research. The prestigious award, presented by the Australian Institute of Policy and Science, acknowledges young scientists who excel in both their research and their ability to communicate scientific concepts to the wider public.
Professor Ferguson, who works at the UOW School of Nursing, was thrilled to receive the accolade, stating that it acknowledged his passion for research and his dedication to making complex scientific information accessible to various audiences. With over 120 academic publications and over $12 million in research funding under his belt, Professor Ferguson ensures that the findings of his studies are translated into everyday language and shared not only with the scientific community but also with research participants and the general public.
Currently serving as the Professor of Nursing (Chronic and Complex Care) and Associate Head of School (Research Strategy, Development and Partnership) at UOW, Professor Ferguson is an emerging leader in the field of chronic care research. His work, which focuses on cardiovascular disease, stroke, and frailty, aims to transform care outcomes for older adults. Professor Ferguson has also made significant contributions to stroke prevention education through his role as a volunteer for the Stroke Foundation, where he engages with community and business groups as a StrokeSafe Speaker.
Throughout his career, Professor Ferguson has displayed a commitment to effective science communication. He has authored numerous articles, including 13 for The Conversation, which have reached a wide audience of over 200,000 readers. These articles cover topics such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, and digital health, and have been republished and translated by major news outlets.
Professor Patricia M Davidson, the Vice-Chancellor and President of UOW, praised Professor Ferguson as a rising star in cardiovascular nursing research. She emphasized his use of technology to pioneer new models of care for chronic disease management, ultimately leading to improved care outcomes for older adults.
In addition to his Tall Poppy Science Award, Professor Ferguson has also been named a finalist for the 2023 Health Minister’s Award for Nursing Trailblazers. This recognition further highlights his exceptional leadership and innovative solutions in addressing key challenges faced by the health and aged care systems, particularly in the area of stroke prevention.
Professor Ferguson’s research has centered on improving the detection, treatment, and long-term management of atrial fibrillation, a common cause of stroke. His innovative use of app-based technologies has provided educational interventions for both clinicians and patients, resulting in increased knowledge and improved stroke risk assessment.
As an esteemed researcher and dedicated advocate for stroke prevention, Professor Ferguson’s contributions to the scientific community and the wider public have not gone unnoticed. Through his commitment to science communication and his groundbreaking research, he is paving the way for future advancements in stroke and cardiovascular care.
