Meet the dedicated volunteers who work throughout the year to deliver the Combined Biological Sciences Meeting.
The Combined Biological Sciences Meeting (CBSM) is made possible through the dedication and generosity of our volunteer Organising Committee. Representing universities, research institutes, scientific societies, and industry across Western Australia, our committee members generously contribute their time, expertise, and enthusiasm to deliver a high-quality conference each year. We sincerely thank them for their commitment to fostering scientific collaboration, supporting the research community, and ensuring the continued success of CBSM.
Co-Conveners
Dr Rina Wong
Dr Rina Wong (Fu) is a medical scientist, performing artist and STEM educator whose research spans antimalarial drug discovery, respiratory pathogen control, and the development of novel bioactive compounds, alongside nationally recognised excellence in tertiary teaching and science communication.
I have been part of the CBSM since completing my honours and throughout my PhD and post-doc journey. CBSM has been the training ground for my scientific presentations and networking. I am honoured to serve as the CBSM Co-Convenor and give back to the WA research community.
Dr Johannes Debler
Johannes’ research focus is on the molecular interactions between fungal pathogens and lentil and chickpea plants.
I’ve always liked CBSM’s core idea of bringing people from different areas of biology together to spark new ideas. As co-chair I am hoping to foster that same excitement in our attendees.
Committee
Dr Sarah Rea
Co-Secretary / Sponsorships and Societies Coordinator
Ms Vivian Chua
Co-Secretary
Dr Linda Wijaya
Co-Treasurer
Dr Vincent Kuek
Co-Treasurer
Mr Jacob Bryne
Trades Exhibition Co-Coordinator
Lamprini Baklous
Trades Exhibition Co-Coordinator
Mr Darren Boey
Webmaster
Dr Blair Johnson
Assistant Webmaster
Alana Celanza
Marketing and Social Media Coordinator/Event Floor Assistant
Mx Luna-Faye Veld
Marketing and Social Media Coordinator
Miss Alyssa Dow
Marketing and Social Media Coordinator
Assoc Prof Charlotte Oksam
Assistant Sponsorships and Societies Coordinator
Prof Emeritus Sue Fletcher
Conference Manual Coordinator
Assoc Prof Patricia Price
Conference Manual Editor
Dr Clayton Fragall
Committee Member
Mr Muhammed Ahmed
Committee Member
Dr Roland Politan
Committee Member
Interested in Joining the Organising Committee?
CBSM is driven by the passion and dedication of volunteers from across Western Australia’s life sciences community. We welcome expressions of interest from researchers, educators, clinicians, students, and industry professionals who are keen to contribute to the planning and delivery of future conferences. If you are interested in becoming involved, we encourage you to get in touch with the Organising Committee here or at cbsmwa@gmail.com to learn more about available opportunities.