Researcher of the Year
This award will be presented to an employee who demonstrates exceptional commitment to research, with significant potential, or actual improved, outcomes for patients or the community.
Meet our 2026 finalists
Professor Girish Dwivedi – Fiona Stanley Fremantle Hospitals Group
Improving care for people living with complex, long-term conditions is a central theme of Professor Girish Dwivedi’s diverse research. An accomplished cardiologist and internationally recognised researcher, his innovative work has brought together services to provide coordinated care, helping patients receive the right support earlier and reducing avoidable hospital visits.
By turning research into practical improvements, Girish has reshaped how care is delivered, ensuring decisions are guided by real patient needs rather than isolated treatments. A strong commitment to prevention and early identification has supported better long-term outcomes for individuals and families, particularly those at higher risk.
Girish has also created opportunities for early career researchers, clinicians, nurses and allied health staff to contribute to meaningful research, building a culture where learning and care go hand-in-hand.
Through leadership, collaboration and innovation, Girish’s work continues to strengthen patient‑centred care across the health service.
Paige Gleason – Fiona Stanley Fremantle Hospitals Group
Paige Gleason’s dedication to her patients and colleagues inspired her to undertake research that connects staff wellbeing to safer, more caring experiences for patients.
Seeing firsthand that nurses working in single-room intensive care unit environments were feeling isolated and under pressure, she led a study that gave staff a safe space to share their experiences.
Turning these insights into evidence, her work highlights practical ways to improve communication, visibility and teamwork, all of which help nurses respond quickly and confidently to patient needs.
Her research champions the idea that caring for patients starts with supporting the people who care for them.
Through thoughtful leadership and genuine advocacy, Paige has shown how listening to staff can drive meaningful improvements in care. Her work lays the foundation for safer environments where patients receive more consistent, attentive and person-centred support.
Thomas Ferguson – Fiona Stanley Fremantle Hospitals Group
Thomas Ferguson’s research focuses on helping people with cancer live longer, better-quality lives. His work has helped bring new treatment options into everyday care, giving patients access to therapies that improve survival and wellbeing.
By leading large research studies and supporting others to take part in research, he ensures patients can benefit from the latest evidence rather than waiting years for change. Equally important is the collaborative way he delivers care, supporting patients to feel empowered in decision making and offering opportunities to take part in studies that align with their goals and values.
His commitment to mentoring also helps grow a research culture that keeps patients at the centre.
Through a combination of compassion, leadership and evidence-based improvement, Thomas’s research has significantly impacted the field of cancer care both nationally and internationally.
See other 2026 Excellence Award finalists and read about our sponsors.