Sarah inspiring the next generation of scientists

Queensland Aphasia Research Centre (QARC) speech pathologist Sarah Wallace was recently awarded a Queensland Young Tall Poppy Science Award for her work in the field of aphasia. Aphasia is a devastating condition where people lose the ability to communicate effectively using language (for example, difficulty with reading, writing, speaking and understanding), often as a result of a stroke. 

These prestigious awards aim to not only recognise academic achievements but also those who demonstrate excellence in communication and community engagement to promote the understanding of science.   

Sarah has established herself as a leader in the field of aphasia research both nationally and internationally. She is the recipient of an NHMRC Emerging Leadership Fellowship and leads the consumer co-design portfolio at QARC.   

Sarah’s research aims to improve the quality of aphasia services and develop technology-based treatments that promote independence, access, and confidence. 

“Of the 27,000 Australians who survive a stroke each year, a third will be impacted by aphasia. Language permeates daily life and is central to roles, relationships, and identity, so the loss of the ability to communicate has significant negative outcomes,” Sarah said. 

“People with aphasia are more likely to develop depression, less likely to return to work, and find it difficult to keep friendships and stay involved in important activities. 

“I work in partnership with consumers, clinicians and community members to co-produce interventions, systems and standards that improve quality of care and outcomes for those with aphasia.” 

In addition to her research achievements, Sarah’s award acknowledges her success in raising awareness of the condition of aphasia and promoting the speech pathology profession.  

Sarah has used a variety of channels to communicate her research including social media, print media, television, podcasts and public forums, including high school career talks. 

“I share my research so that it gets to the people who need it – such as people who live with aphasia and their families, so they can better understand their health condition and make decisions about their treatment,” she said.  

A career highlight for Sarah has been leading co-design sessions with community members to develop a template and website for ‘communication-accessible’ research reporting. The development of the template and website has been supported by the Collaboration of Aphasia Trialists and Tavistock Trust for Aphasia. 

“I am very proud of this current project that is giving aphasia researchers around the world a practical way of increasing scientific literacy in their own communities,” Sarah said.