Biography

A/Prof Hannan leads the Therapeutics Discovery and Vascular Function Group, within the broader Translational Obstetrics Group at the Mercy Hospital for Women, University of Melbourne. She is passionate about developing new approaches to combat major complication of pregnancy, especially preeclampsia.  Natalie’s research is focused on developing therapeutic strategies that are safe in pregnancy and novel approaches to deliver therapies directly to the placenta. Her pre-clinical research has led to a number of exciting clinical trials both internationally and nationally.

Natalie’s research has been recognized by the award of a NHMRC CDF Fellowship and she currently holds two NHMRC Project Grants (as CIA), she is a past recipient of the University of Melbourne C R Roper Fellowship and was recently awarded a Melbourne Medical School inaugural Strategic Grant for Outstanding Women. Natalie has a strong research profile with over 80 peer-reviewed publications in international journals. Natalie is the President of the Australian New Zealand Placental Research Association (ANZPRA), and an executive member on The International Federation of Placental Associations (IFPA) executive committee.

Natalie is well known for her engagement and passion to communicate her research to the public, she was selected as a Fresh Scientist and awarded a Young Tall Poppy award. As the Associate Dean for Diversity and Inclusion, MDHS, University of Melbourne and a VESKI Inspiring Women Fellow, Natalie is a staunch ambassador for Women in STEM and is involved in initiatives to reduce the gender inequity in STEM. Natalie believes in a diverse and discrimination free workplace, where gender, sexuality and sexual orientation, disability and an individual’s background should not be a barrier to reaching their full potential.