Danica Vojisavljevic

Dr Danica Vojisavljevic (Dana) is an Early Career Researcher in neonatal kidney health and a Lecturer in Physiology at the College of Medicine and Dentistry. She earned her PhD in 2017 from the Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute at Monash University Australia focused on the impact of premature birth and fetal growth restriction on kidney development and function in neonates. This work integrated both preclinical studies using sheep models, conducted in collaboration with the Ritchie Centre (Monash University) and the University of Utah; and clinical investigations at Monash Medical Centre and the Menzies School of Health Research in Darwin.

Building on this foundation, Dana has established herself as a key contributor to translational research in neonatal nephrology. She is a member of the esteemed Perinatal Research Group at Townsville University Hospital, where she leads projects aimed at improving the early diagnosis and prevention of acute kidney injury (AKI) in neonates and young children. Her current research focuses on the development and clinical application of novel biomarkers to enhance early detection and intervention strategies for AKI.

Dana’s research leadership is driven by a deep commitment to understanding the complex relationships between kidney health, preterm birth, fetal growth restriction, and maternal health - advancing knowledge and clinical practice to improve outcomes for vulnerable infants.

Dana is a passionate physiology educator who inspires future health professionals through inclusive, student-centred teaching and curriculum innovation . Her work builds healthcare and research capacity in tropical and regional communities, empowering students with knowledge, purpose, and professional identity within the academic community.