Brilliant minds
Meet our brilliant minds: Professor Angela Morgan
Professor Angela Morgan is a Senior Principal Researcher at Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI), where she leads the Speech and Language Research Group.
Her work is focused on identifying the genetic causes behind speech disorders in children and improving outcomes for those with rare genetic diseases affecting speech and language development.
Through her research, Professor Morgan and her team aim to understand the genetic factors that contribute to speech disorders, which can lead to challenges in literacy, education, and later career opportunities.
These conditions are also linked to mental health issues and a reduced quality of life.
By pinpointing the genetic causes, Professor Morgan hopes to develop more effective treatments that will improve communication skills and overall well-being for affected children.
Professor Angela Morgan is a Senior Principal Researcher at Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI), where she leads the Speech and Language Research Group.
Her work is focused on identifying the genetic causes behind speech disorders in...
Professor Angela Morgan is a Senior Principal Researcher at Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI), where she leads the Speech and Language Research Group.
Her work is focused on identifying the genetic causes behind speech disorders in children and improving outcomes for those with rare genetic diseases affecting speech and language development.
Through her research, Professor Morgan and her team aim to understand the genetic factors that contribute to speech disorders, which can lead to challenges in literacy, education, and later career opportunities.
These conditions are also linked to mental health issues and a reduced quality of life.
By pinpointing the genetic causes, Professor Morgan hopes to develop more effective treatments that will improve communication skills and overall well-being for affected children.
Professor Morgan is particularly excited about the advances in genomic medicine, which have revolutionised her field. "When I first began in this area in the 90s, we didn’t have a clear understanding of what caused speech disorders, other than those resulting from acquired injuries," she says. "Now, thanks to the genomic era, we’re able to identify genetic changes that explain so many of these conditions. This opens up incredible possibilities for developing new therapies to help children and families."
A major highlight of her career is the ongoing impact her research has on the families she works with. "The most rewarding part of my job is when we can offer families a clearer understanding of their child’s condition and provide practical solutions that improve their lives," she says.
Outside of her research, Professor Morgan is deeply connected to her Tasmanian roots. A proud Tasmanian, she grew up in a small community and is currently involved in a heritage project in her home state. "I’ve always been interested in genealogy, social history, and land preservation. It’s a different kind of research, but it’s just as rewarding," she shares. A documentary about the heritage project is expected to be released later this year.
Reflecting on her career, Professor Morgan recalls a memorable experience meeting Queen Elizabeth II during her time working at Great Ormond Street Hospital in the UK. "She asked such intelligent questions about speech and brain plasticity, and she was incredibly sharp. It was a truly unforgettable experience."
Looking ahead, Professor Morgan is optimistic about the future of child health research and the potential to make a significant difference in the lives of children with speech and language disorders. "We’re on the cusp of major breakthroughs, and I’m excited about the possibility of improving treatments and outcomes for children with these conditions," she says.
Ultimately, Professor Morgan hopes to contribute to a future where all children, regardless of genetic background or health challenges, can thrive and reach their full potential in communication and beyond.
