Monash students awarded 2026 Westpac Future Leaders Scholarships
Three Monash University postgraduate students are among 18 young Australians who have been awarded a total $3.45 million from the Westpac Scholars Trust to advance bold new research across sustainability, technology, health and social change.
Together, the 2026 Westpac Research Fellows and Future Leaders Scholars are driving breakthroughs in medical innovation, accelerating climate and environmental solutions, strengthening community resilience, and pushing the boundaries of transformative technology – helping to build a more sustainable, equitable and future-ready Australia.
Doctor of Philosophy student Jera Peters’s research focuses on stem cell biology and bioengineered models.
“I will work with human stem cells to create more physiologically relevant models, with the goal of improving our understanding of diseases and accelerating the development of new therapies and treatments,” Jera said.
“I am driven by science that makes a real-world difference in people's lives, and I hope to build a career at the intersection of biomedical discovery and translational impact.”
Master of Counselling student Vivien Dao’s research aims to contribute to the development of culturally-informed mental health frameworks for the Southeast-Asian/Australian diaspora, lowering barriers to access and the provision of support for this community in life and work.
“My long-term vision also includes the creation of a social change campaign for the prevention of domestic violence in Vietnam; a silent epidemic impacting two in three women with further ramifications on the socioeconomic development of the country, by leveraging existing Australian support and communication frameworks," Vivien said.
“I’m excited for the opportunity to further turn this into tangible outcomes with the support of my Westpac Scholarship to help make the world a better place, even if it's just within my small sphere of influence.”
Zara Mammone is studying a PhD with the Faculty of Science. Her research on vault nanoparticles sits at the intersection of fundamental science and biotechnology, and has the potential to enable more targeted and accessible therapies.
“By providing insights into their (vault nanoparticles’) cellular organisation and dynamics, we can further explore their potential as innovative drug delivery systems," Zara said.
"In my research, I am driven by raw curiosity and a desire to translate fundamental science into meaningful biotechnology outcomes. I aspire to build a career that encourages cross-disciplinary work, while contributing to an inclusive and innovative research culture."
Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student Experience) and Senior Vice-President Professor Sarah McDonald congratulated the students and acknowledged Westpac for its support in developing next-generation leaders.
“Monash University is so grateful for the funding Westpac provides to advance vital research on the vanguard of sustainability, technology, health and social development,” she said.
“Through the Westpac Scholars Trust, Monash students are able to undertake key research that supports the University's commitment to deliver generational social and technological transformation to meet the challenges of the age for the aspiring communities and industries we serve.
“I extend my warmest congratulations to Jera, Vivien and Zara on this remarkable achievement – their work embodies the very best of Monash: curiosity, courage and commitment to creating a more sustainable, equitable and future-ready world.”
For more information on Westpac Scholars Trust and this year’s scholars, visit the Westpac Scholars website.