Ness Vaughan

Ness Vaughan is a Senior Lecturer at the UWA Medical School, University of Western Australia, and serves as Sub Dean for Global Medicine and Community Engagement Lead in the MD Education Unit. They hold a PhD in Medicine (Cancer Cachexia: A Molecular Nutrition Approach) and a Graduate Certificate in Higher Education (Learning & Teaching) from Deakin University, along with a Bachelor of Science (Forensic Biology; Honours) from Deakin University.

• Education
  • Doctor of Philosophy, Deakin University (2012–2014)
  • Graduate Certificate of Higher Education, Deakin University (2018–2021)
  • Bachelor of Science (Forensic Biology; Honours), Deakin University (2006–2009)

Research Interests focus on improving healthcare outcomes for marginalized communities through translational research. Key areas include:

• Patient and carer experiences of cancer cachexia
• Health literacy in community settings
• Medical education equity (Global Health, LGBTQIA+ Health, Indigenous Health)
• Social determinants of health

Recent publications analyze health literacy metrics, LGBTQIA+ inclusion in medical curricula, and clinical approaches to cancer cachexia. Their work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) including Quality Education and Good Health & Well-Being. Vaughan actively mentors PhD and HDR students while leading the GEMPASS research project on community engagement in medical school selection.

Professional Engagements include leadership roles in networks like the Curriculum Queering Community of Practice (WA) and membership in organizations such as the Cancer Cachexia Society and Australian and New Zealand Association for Health Professional Educators.