At MQ, our commitment to growing the mental health research workforce has been unwavering. For the past decade, we have invested in our flagship Fellowships programme, but we recognized a troubling trend – up to 70% of researchers were leaving academia immediately after completing their PhD. In response, we launched the MQ Scholarships Programme to nurture and support the next generation of pioneering mental health researchers.

This year, we were thrilled to receive 82 applications for our inaugural cohort of the MQ Scholarships Programme. After careful consideration from our expert international funding committee, six projects were selected for support. These projects span the globe, with researchers based in Australia, Colombia, India, Uganda, and the UK.

Over the next two years, each of these early career researchers will receive the support they need to advance their projects. This support goes beyond just financial backing – we are committed to providing them with opportunities for critical capacity and career development.

The Six Researchers Supported by MQ Scholarships Programme

1. Dr. Emily Greene – Australia

Dr. Greene’s project focuses on understanding the genetic underpinnings of anxiety disorders in young adults. Through her research, she aims to identify potential biomarkers for early intervention and treatment.

2. Dr. Juan Rodriguez – Colombia

Dr. Rodriguez is investigating the impact of cultural beliefs on the stigma surrounding schizophrenia in Colombia. His work seeks to develop culturally sensitive interventions to reduce stigma and improve access to mental health services.

3. Dr. Meera Sharma – India

Dr. Sharma’s project examines the role of social media in influencing body image and self-esteem among adolescents in India. She hopes to develop evidence-based strategies to promote positive mental health among this vulnerable population.

4. Dr. Isaac Mugabi – Uganda

Dr. Mugabi is studying the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among refugees in Uganda. His research aims to provide insights into the mental health needs of displaced populations and inform the development of culturally relevant interventions.

5. Dr. Hannah Wright – UK

Dr. Wright’s project explores the impact of childhood trauma on emotional regulation and resilience in young adults. She aims to develop targeted interventions to support individuals who have experienced adverse childhood experiences.

6. Dr. Oliver Patel – UK

Dr. Patel is investigating the role of gut microbiota in the development of depression and anxiety disorders. His research seeks to uncover the link between the gut-brain axis and mental health, with the potential to revolutionize treatment approaches.

At MQ, we are proud to support these talented researchers through the MQ Scholarships Programme. We believe that investing in the next generation of mental health researchers is essential for advancing our understanding of mental illness and improving outcomes for individuals affected by these conditions.

Stay tuned for updates on the progress of these projects and the impact they are making in the field of mental health research.