Eliza Whiteside

Eliza Whiteside is a Professor of Biomedical Science at the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ), where she also serves as Associate Head of School (Medical Sciences) and chairs critical committees like the Darling Downs-South West Medical Pathway Student Selection and Admissions. Her roles include leadership in research groups such as the Molecular Biomarkers Research Group and the Medical Materials and Technologies Lead in the SIMPLE Hub. She holds a BSc from James Cook University, a PhD in Biomedical Sciences from Queensland University of Technology (QUT), and a PGCert in Academic Practice.

Her research focuses on cancer biology, molecular biomarkers, women’s health, and Aboriginal health equity. She has attracted over $5.35M in research funding, including NHMRC grants and initiatives addressing health disparities. Her work integrates interdisciplinary collaborations across biomedical sciences, engineering, and Indigenous health advocacy.

Dr. Whiteside has supervised 42 HDR and Honours students, with current PhD supervision in areas like gynaecological cancer disparities and 3D bioengineered bone models. She advocates for gender equity in academia through roles in the Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) initiative and mentors early-career researchers. Her recognitions include the Queensland Young Tall Poppy Award (2013) and finalist positions in regional innovation awards.

Community engagement is central to her work, including partnerships with Aboriginal Medical Services and leadership in the Closing the Gap initiative for chronic wound care. She volunteers with CSIRO’s STEM outreach, focusing on underrepresented groups in science education.