Brilliant minds
Meet our brilliant minds: Associate Professor Amanda Gwee
Associate Professor Amanda Gwee leads the Antimicrobials Research Group at Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI), where she is focused on improving the treatment of childhood infections.
Her research aims to ensure that every child can access safe and effective treatments for serious and common infections.
Amanda’s work primarily involves conducting drug dosing studies and clinical trials to determine effective, safe doses for antimicrobials - medications used to treat infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites - that are not yet licensed for children, and therefore inaccessible.
Her team also investigates new, more effective ways to administer these antimicrobials to paediatric patients, with the ultimate goal of improving health outcomes for children with infections.
Associate Professor Amanda Gwee leads the Antimicrobials Research Group at Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI), where she is focused on improving the treatment of childhood infections.
Her research aims to ensure that every child can access...
Associate Professor Amanda Gwee leads the Antimicrobials Research Group at Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI), where she is focused on improving the treatment of childhood infections.
Her research aims to ensure that every child can access safe and effective treatments for serious and common infections.
Amanda’s work primarily involves conducting drug dosing studies and clinical trials to determine effective, safe doses for antimicrobials - medications used to treat infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites - that are not yet licensed for children, and therefore inaccessible.
Her team also investigates new, more effective ways to administer these antimicrobials to paediatric patients, with the ultimate goal of improving health outcomes for children with infections.
As a finalist for the AAMRI Rising Star Award and recipient of the prestigious NHMRC EL2 Investigator Grant and the MRFF Clinical Trial Grant, Amanda says her priority is always to create high quality, clinically meaningful research that will directly benefit the lives of children with infection. She adds that the true reward lies in the real-world impact of her research.
"It's a privilege to receive these accolades, and they serve as validation for the hardwork and dedication of my team and collaborators.”
A significant area of focus for A/Prof Gwee is the TREATkids program, which works to improve the accessibility and effectiveness of treatments for children.
Amanda explains that the limited licensing of antimicrobials, especially for multi-drug resistant infections in young children, is a critical issue.
Drugs that are not licensed for children often lack sufficient data on effective dosing and safety, and they are frequently more expensive to access. The program aims to achieve equity for children, ensuring they have the same access as adults to these essential antimicrobials, so that children can receive safe and effective treatments just like adults do.
Outside of her research, Amanda is a passionate traveller and enjoys spending time with her family. Whether skiing, dancing, knitting, or baking, she has a range of hobbies that keep her balanced and grounded.
"My family is incredibly important to me, and I love exploring new places with my husband and kids," she shares.
As we celebrate International Women's Day, Amanda reflects on the women who have inspired her throughout her life and career.
"Professor Elizabeth Molyneux OBE has been an incredible mentor to me. I did my first research project with her in Malawi, and her support has been invaluable ever since. My mum has also been a huge influence – she showed me how to balance a successful career with being a great mother. I hope to be that same source of inspiration for the future generation of women in science."
For A/Prof Gwee, the legacy she hopes to leave is one of support, strength, and empowerment.
"I want to encourage young women in science to know they’re not imposters and to always have each other's backs," she says. "I hope that, just like these incredible women have done for me, I can help empower others to reach their full potential."
Through her research and mentorship, Amanda is not only shaping the future of paediatric care but also paving the way for more women to thrive in science and research.
