CREATE Hope Fellowships 2026 - Centre of Research Excellence in Pulmonary Fibrosis

Dr Cheng Zhao from University of Sydney and Dr Ella Smalley from University of Tasmania

Huge congratulations to CREATE Fellows Dr Cheng Zhao and Dr Ella Smalley who were awarded 2026 CREATE Hope Fellowships at Lung Foundation Australia’s Research and Alumni Dinner at the Hilton in Perth on Sunday 29 March.

Thanks to Lung Foundation Australia for hosting this lovely evening, which acknowledges the important role of researchers in improving lung health for all, and for supporting these career-making research awards.

Cheng, from the University of Sydney was awarded a fellowship for her project: Understanding Causes of Pulmonary Fibrosis Through the Dual Lens of the Environment and Genetics. Cheng wasn’t able to make the Lung Foundation dinner and this photo is from an earlier presentation. Cheng’s supervisor Professor Tamera Corte accepted the award on her behalf.

Ella from the University of Tasmania was awarded a fellowship for her project: A novel iPSC-derived organoid and co-culture model to investigate genetic drivers and therapeutic targets in familial pulmonary fibrosis. Lung Foundation Chair, Professor Lucy Morgan, presented Ella with her award.

Pulmonary Fibrosis Institute

The Centre of Research Excellence in Pulmonary Fibrosis has established the Pulmonary Fibrosis Institute, a not-for-profit company registered in Australia. The Pulmonary Fibrosis Institute exists to support ongoing research into pulmonary fibrosis and ensure the longevity of research infrastructure developed through our collaborative efforts.