Victoria University announces new research fellows

Victoria University (VU) has appointed four new research fellows to join its thriving research community.

The Vice-Chancellor’s Research and Impact and Fellowships attracted huge interest across the academic community. Four researchers have been appointed in this first of two planned rounds of appointments.   

They are: 

• Dr Asif Mahmood; leading researcher in the field of energy storage and materials science
• Dr James Broatch; a current VU early-career researcher who investigates exercise's role in brain health and ageing
• Associate Professor Lesley Cheng; a cell and molecular Biologist investigating neuronal death and survival
• Associate Professor Lia Kent; her work is focused on interdisciplinary peace and conflict studies creating frameworks for cultural experiences of violence.  

 They will officially begin their new roles in early 2026.  

“I want to extend my warmest personal welcome to our four new colleagues. This marks such an exciting new chapter in our research journey. Their work will drive discovery, spark collaboration, and help tackle some of the most pressing challenges of our time — from advancing health and sustainability to building peace in a world which has never been more complex,” Vice-Chancellor Professor Adam Shoemaker said.  

Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Research and Impact, Professor Andy Hill said the appointments represent VU's excellence in research as we prepare to open our brand-new research facility within the new Footscray Hospital, where some of our new fellows will be located.  

“These researchers understand our values and our commitment to exceptional research. They bring a broad range and depth of knowledge which aligns nicely to our research focus areas at a time of expansion for VU research,” Professor Hill said.     

Hear from our new fellows   

Dr Asif Mahmood: “My goal is to make clean energy safer and more sustainable. At Victoria University, I will combine battery materials science with fire safety and circular economy research to help Australia lead in developing responsible, high-performance energy technologies.”  

Dr James Broatch: “I’m thrilled to continue my research through the VU Research and Impact Fellowship. My work focuses on understanding how exercise supports brain health as we age and finding ways to use that knowledge to help people live healthier, longer, and more independent lives.”  

Associate Professor Lesley Cheng: “My goal is to advance early diagnostic blood tests and therapeutic strategies for brain diseases, while helping to build VU’s ecosystem where discovery science, innovation, and industry collaboration come together to improve lives. I’m excited to join Victoria University at such an exciting time for translational research.”  

Associate Professor Lia Kent: “I am drawn to VU because of its commitment to social justice, and its long-term connection to Timor-Leste and to First Nations communities. I am excited about the possibilities the fellowship will open-up for extending and connecting different area of my research.”   

The next round for the VCRIF will open early next year.