MERCi 2.0

We have successfully completed MERCi 2.0 on November 26 at Clinical School Johor Bahru (CSJB). This is the second gathering of academics from the School of Engineering (SoE), School of Medicine (SoM), School of Information Technology (SoIT), and clinicians from CSJB to discuss ongoing clinical problems and brainstorm ways to address them.

MERCi 2.0 kickstarted with Prof Letchuman and Assoc Prof Kumaran welcoming participants. This is followed by Assoc Prof Ooi introducing participants to Monash MERCi and the MET hub. During the event, Assoc Prof Ramakrishnan Narayanan and Dr Ajay Mohanan presented their work on cutting-edge sensors that may open doors for various clinical detection processes. Dr Chan Ping Yi and Dr Lim Lam Ghai showcased their work on Parkinson’s disease detection and brain function illumination, respectively. Assoc Prof Anne Yee from CSJB presented her study on addressing nicotine addiction with transcranial direct current stimulation. Dr Sicily Ting from SoIT introduced their newly established research hub, Information Technology Research Hub of Medical AI (MAI-Hub), which opens opportunities for the growth of Monash MERCi.

MERCi 2.0 also featured updates of four projects that were established from our inaugural event in April this year, namely (i) the development of an audible stethoscope, (ii) the study of air pollution on male fertility, (iii) the development of a smart mask, and (iv) the development of a handheld nerve conduction study device. All four projects have progressed well since their establishment in April 2024.

We are happy to see an increasing number of participants this time, with fruitful discussions on various clinically relevant problems. This clearly demonstrates the ability of Monash academics with different disciplines and expertise to come together to address problems for the benefit of the community; a true demonstration of multidisciplinary collaboration.

We look forward to the next MERCi gathering and the growth of Monash MERCi. Thank you to everyone who has been very supportive of this initiative. Special acknowledgement to Ms Fifi Dolina who helped with planning and logistics.