18 March 2025

Six members of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians have been internationally recognised and awarded Fulbright Scholarships to conduct research and projects that will improve lives.

The Fulbright Program, a renowned international academic exchange program run since 1946 and known for having Nobel Prize, Pulitzer Prize, award-winning researchers and heads of state among some its notable alumni, allows recipients to study in the United States.

Professor Jennifer Martin, President of the RACP says, “Congratulations to our six members who have gone above and beyond in their work – the Fulbright Scholarship is an incredible achievement for some of the brightest minds around the world.

“We are incredibly proud of our members who have received this outstanding recognition for their contributions to the health of all people.

“We support them and the invaluable research opportunity they have been given – what they learn from this experience will absolutely save lives and improve healthcare around the world," says Professor Martin.

Scholarships were awarded to physicians across a range of specialities and specific research focuses including cancer research, cardiovascular health and health inequity.

The six recipients from the RACP include:

Dr Christian Said (Cardiologist, Fellow)

“My Fulbright research focuses on optimising the use of temporary heart pumps in patients experiencing heart attacks.”

Dr Joshua Wong (Cardiologist, Fellow) 

“My Fulbright research addresses the increasing problem of cancer survivors developing heart dysfunction later in life. I aim to validate a clinical risk score that helps identify which survivors will benefit most from heart failure screening. This collaboration with Memorial Sloan Kettering establishes an ongoing relationship with Australia’s largest cancer hospital.”

Dr Daniel Clayton-Chubb (Gastroenterologist, Fellow) 

“My Fulbright research aims to develop novel associations between lifestyle and diet, genetics, the microbiome, and early-onset colorectal cancer. This will allow us to develop more accurate screening and prediction tools to better risk-stratify young adults for preventive interventions, counselling, and more or less intensive surveillance, eventually saving lives.”

 Conjoint Professor Nada Hamad (Haematologist, Fellow) 

“My Fulbright project at Fred Hutch Cancer Center aims to enhance access to cellular therapies by leveraging big data and scalable laboratory innovations. By addressing social determinants of health and advancing cost-effective solutions, I aspire to expand equitable access to life-saving treatments for vulnerable populations in Australia and globally.”

Dr Allen Gu (Basic Trainee)

“My Masters in Biostatistics will equip me with the latest computational and statistical tools to uncover insights within cancer biology. By working at the intersection of mathematics and medicine, I will contribute to developing novel and personalised interventions in my career as a future haematologist-scientist.”

Dr David Motorniak (Basic Trainee) 

“My Master of Bioethics will help me develop rigorous skills in ethics and policy to drive difficult decision-making for future public health challenges like pandemics, chronic disease and healthcare inequity. Combining philosophical training with my background in medicine and public health, I will contribute to developing ethical frameworks that consider the moral consequences of Australian healthcare policy.”

About the Fulbright Program

The Fulbright Program is the flagship international academic exchange program sponsored by the US government. It has fostered mutual understanding between the United States and other countries since 1946. The Program supports approximately 8,000 students, scholars, and professionals from over 160 countries annually. Administered by the US Department of State and Fulbright Commissions in 49 countries, it operates through a merit-based selection process. Fulbright alumni include Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, and global leaders, highlighting its impact across disciplines.

View the full list of 2025 Fullbright recipients