The Lions Eye Institute is proud to share that Dr Jessica Mountford, Functional Molecular Vision Lab Head and Brian King Research Fellow at the Lions Eye Institute, has been appointed to the Western Australian Government’s newly established Early and Mid-Career Researchers (EMCR) Reference Group.
Dr Jessica Mountford
The Cook Government has established the EMCR Reference Group, supported by the Chief Scientist of Western Australia, Professor Sharath Sriram, to aid the work of the WA Science and Technology Council and contribute to the broader implementation of the State’s 10-Year Science and Technology Plan. The Reference Group will also provide a platform for EMCRs like Dr Mountford to raise their national and international profile, enhance policy and advocacy engagement, and build peer mentoring and professional networks.
“The Cook Government understands that Western Australia’s early and mid-career researchers are critical to driving discovery, innovation and economic diversification in our State. The establishment of the EMCR Reference Group ensures emerging research leaders have a direct voice in shaping the policies and programs that support a strong and sustainable science and technology sector,” said Stephen Dawson, Science and Innovation and Medical Research Minister.
Dr Mountford’s research involves investigating the role of genetics and environmental contributors in the development of early-onset myopia (short-sightedness). She is also working with zebrafish to help uncover some of the complex gene-environment interactions responsible for the development of myopia.
“Congratulations to Dr Mountford on this well-deserved appointment. We’re incredibly proud of the calibre of researchers at the Lions Eye Institute, and opportunities like this ensure that the brightest minds will be at the forefront of the state’s scientific development,” said Dr Glen Power, Managing Director of the Lions Eye Institute.
Learn more about our ongoing research projects.
