Stock conference invests in SAHMRI research

A/Prof Tim Sargeant’s quest to define the role of autophagy – the body’s cellular recycling system – in the development of age-related disease has received a $100,000 boost thanks to the generosity of Sohn Hearts & Minds.

A/Prof Sargeant was a presenter at the 2024 Sohn Hearts & Minds Investment Leaders Conference – Australia’s premier investment and philanthropy event – which was held in Adelaide for the first time last November.

“My team is so grateful to Sohn Hearts & Minds for this support, and to the State Government for its vision to secure this event for South Australia,” A/Prof Sargeant said.

“This donation will drive our research into the fundamental causes of age-related diseases such as dementia and heart disease.

“Having the privilege of presenting to the conference was a phenomenal experience for me. Meeting bright, ambitious people from another sector can provide the spark that inspires our next great discovery.”

Maggie O’Neill from Sohn Hearts & Minds visited Adelaide to present A/Prof Sargeant with the donation, as well as donations to Prof Karen Reynolds from the Flinders University Medical Device Research Institute and Prof Alex Brown from the Kids Research Institute and Australian National University.

“We’re proud to support these brilliant minds as they push the boundaries of discovery and impact,” she said.

“These projects have the potential to drive meaningful change through cutting-edge medical devices, advancing precision medicine for Indigenous communities, and deepening our understanding of neurodegenerative disease.

“Expanding our support to South Australian researchers reflects our commitment to backing world-class medical innovation across Australia. We sincerely thank the Government of South Australia and Invest SA for supporting Sohn Hearts & Minds in Adelaide last year.”

SA Minister for Trade and Investment Joe Szakacs says the investor event drew 600 senior representatives and key decision-makers from more than 450 organisations to the state, expanding connections for local business.

“It will also leave a permanent legacy for South Australian medical research,” he said.
 
“These investments in the future of science will help to boost the well-being of our community as researchers strive to continue making our lives happier, and longer.”

Sohn Hearts & Minds annual conference brings together top investment, scientific and philanthropic minds in support of medical research. The event offers a unique forum for industry leaders and global thought leaders to network, access exclusive insights and support critical medical research.