Dr Javed, from the La Trobe Institute of Molecular Science (LIMS), will use the funding to advance his research program on the linkage between gut bacteria and brain ageing.
The academic Ibrahim began his research career 15 years ago, undertaking a Master of Philosophy degree.
Through a variety of research roles, both as a student and a scientist, Dr Javed’s research organically evolved, leading him to explore the gut-brain axis in the biochemistry of human ageing.
The DECRA scheme provides focused research support for early career researchers in both teaching and research, and research-only positions.
As researchers know, securing a DECRA is not an easy accomplishment.
Dr Javed said he first applied for the grant in 2020 however he was unsuccessful. He was determined to try again, and in the meantime secured an NHMRC Emerging Leadership Fellowship.
His advice for fellow researchers, particularly in the early stage of their career is to learn from every rejection.
“Take a step back to redesign the bigger picture of your project and refine your proposal each time. Continuously improve your applications and reapply,” Dr Javed said.
“If you’re doing strong research, a closed door in one place usually means an open door somewhere else, you just need to persist until you find it.”
His work aims to investigate how components from microbial biofilms, termed amyloids, leach out from the gut, access other tissues and interfere with cellular and molecular processes involved in ageing.
The research aims to provide insights that will improve the quality of ageing in senior citizens and Australia’s economic capacity in aged-care services.
La Trobe’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation Professor Chris Pakes said the project was a great example of how La Trobe research is tackling societal challenges.
“Dr Javed’s research will be immensely beneficial to Australia’s aging population, as our healthcare sector and our government seeks to find ways to better care for us into the future,” Professor Pakes said.
“I congratulate Ibrahim on this significant achievement and look forward to hearing about the project as it progresses.”
It was a curiosity about humankind’s place and purpose in the greater universe inspired Dr Javed’s career.
“We are born on a tiny planet for a tiny amount of time, compared to the infinite time and space of the universe, so what is the point of living a short life on this small planet?
“The biochemistry inside us is one of the apertures, through which the universe is exploring itself. This is a great motivation to build a career in science and borrow this aperture from the nature and take a look.”
