Research Impact Competition

Our number one research a real game-changer for number twos

Western’s impactful research was front and centre during last week’s Research Week, which was celebrated through a diverse program of events. A highlight was the annual Research Impact Competition, featuring 17 compelling presentations that showcased the breadth and depth of innovation across our university.

Dr Jerry Zhou from the School of Medicine took out first place with his presentation, Bringing Treatment Home: Helping Australians Poop Better. Jerry’s research has led to the development of ‘Ins&Outs’, a clinical-grade, home-based device which works by retraining the brain to restore normal bowel muscle functions using biofeedback therapy – offering hope to the 4.5 million Australians living with bowel disorders such as constipation or incontinence.

“It’s a huge honour to win the Research Impact Competition, especially given the incredible projects presented across the University,” Jerry said.

“Ins&Outs is among the very first TGA-approved medical devices developed at Western Sydney University, and it’s set to be manufactured locally at the Factory of the Future in Bankstown. Proof that world-class innovations don’t have to be imported, they can be proudly created right here in Western Sydney and shared with the world,” Jerry said.

Jerry gave a shout-out to the “dream team” at Western who have helped him along the way – including Associate Professor Vincent Ho, Professor Bahman Javadi, Professor Paul Breen, Professor Deborah Sweeney, Tim Horan, and Don Wright.