Workshop 9: Visibility in STEM and Medical Practice/Research/Higher Education: Empowering Diverse Voices
Tracks
Track 3
| Tuesday, December 9, 2025 |
| 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM |
Details
Enacting principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion ensures that everyone has the opportunity to contribute their perspectives and ideas, leading to greater equity, innovation, and productivity.
This workshop will provide a platform that highlights the contributions of diverse groups in STEM and medical practice/research/higher education and will foster an inclusive environment where voices are heard and valued. A range of perspectives will be shared in this workshop, including those from Indigenous Australians, the LGBTQIA+ community, and the culturally and linguistically diverse community.
The ASCEPT EDI Committee welcomes all delegates of the ASCEPT and Hypertension Australia Joint Scientific Meeting to this workshop. We encourage attendance by those that are passionate about promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion, and those that are interested in learning more about the topic. Join us in creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels empowered to participate and contribute.
Speaker
Dr Rikeish R Muralitharan
Research Fellow
Monash University, Victorian Heart Institute
Panellist
Biography
Dr Rikeish R Muralitharan is a Research Fellow at the Hypertension Research Laboratory, Victorian Heart Institute, where his work explores the role of the gut microbiota in cardiovascular disease. With a background in medicine and a PhD in genetics and physiology, his research spans molecular biology, immunology, physiology, and translational science.
Dr R Muralitharan is a passionate advocate for equity in STEM and higher education, reflected in his leadership roles on diversity and early-career committees, and his receipt of the 2024 Dean’s Award for Diversity and Inclusion in Education. In addition to his leadership roles and experience, he has co-organised an international symposia, contributed to >20 publications, and regularly engages in science communication and community outreach.
As a panellist for Visibility in STEM and Medical Practice/Research/Higher Education: Empowering Diverse Voices, he brings lived experience and a commitment to fostering inclusive research environments.
