The primary aim of the Parkinson’s Queensland Inc. Seeding Grant Scheme is to support individual researchers and research teams to conduct high quality research into Parkinson’s disease. This includes both basic and applied science research.  In 2009 PQI awarded funding to qualified research students for innovative research projects related to Parkinson’s disease.  In total, four scholarships were granted; 1 PhD Research Grant Scheme and 3 Research Seeding Grants.

Effects of Enhanced Somatosensory Information on Postural Stability in People with Parkinson’s Disease

QUT PhD student, Mr Feng Qiu, will be researching how changes in the somatosensory information (sensory signals from all tissues of the body including skin, muscles and joints), affects postural stability in people with Parkinson’s disease.  The project will also investigate whether textured insoles, used to enhance somatosensory information from the feet, can be an important intervention to prevent falls in PD patients – thus providing a low-cost means of improving postural stability.

Dynamical Postural Stability and Falls Prediction in Parkinson’s Disease

QUT Associate Professor, Dr Graham Kerr, will be initiating a study to enable the development of a prospectively validated falls risk test for people with PD.  It will combine demographic, clinical tests and measures of dynamic postural stability to derive independent risk factors for falls.  The falls risk tool will have wide application across medical and allied health areas for risk assessment and prescription of primary therapy.

How Does Genetic Background Interact With Environmental Exposure to Modify Parkinson’s Risk?

Griffith University Associate Professor, Dr George Mellick, will undertake experiments to identify gene-gene and gene-environment interactions that will substantially modify risk for PD.  In particular, pesticide exposure, cigarette smoking and genetic variability across a biological pathway that influences a body’s ability to detoxify such exposures will be examined.

Activation of the Antioxidant Pathway Restores Metabolic Functions in Parkinson’s Disease Patient-Derived Cell Lines

Dr Stephen Wood’s (Griffith University) research project will compare cells from patients with typical Parkinson’s disease with those from healthy controls.  The cells will be used to identify molecular differences between the groups.  To date, a significant dysregulation of pathways involved in the body’s response to chemicals and oxidative stress has been identified and functional differences in these pathways in PD cells have been restored.  Subsequently, the purpose of the project is to determine whether the disrupted pathways are symptomatic or causative of typical PD.

2010 Grant Round Now Open

Parkinson’s Queensland Inc. (PQI) invites applications from suitably qualified research students and researchers for grants supporting research into Parkinson’s disease.

The PQI PhD Research Grant Scheme funds high quality applications from current full-time PhD students who are undertaking innovative research projects related to Parkinson’s disease.  Funding will be available for the duration of the applicant’s candidature – up to a maximum of three years.  Grants of up to $10,000 each will be awarded.

The PQI Research Seeding Grant Scheme funds high quality applications from Queensland based researchers or teams of researchers to undertake innovative research projects related to Parkinson’s disease.  Funding will be available for one year, after which successful applicants will be required to apply to external funding agencies for further funding support.  The value of the Research Seeding Grants will be up to a maximum value of $30,000.  Applicants will be required to provide matching funds, with at least 20% cash contribution.

Closing date for applications: Friday, 1st October 2010

Grant Scheme Guidelines

Seeding Grant Application Form

Project Grant Application Form

Please call 1800 644 189 (toll free).

See the Support Group page for details of our many regional and metropolitan Support Groups

General information about Parkinson’s disease and related issues is available through our Info line which is staffed by an Information Officer and volunteers. Your call can remain anonymous if you prefer and our support staff are well equipped to provide information about any aspect of Parkinson’s disease.

Please call 1800 644 189 (toll free).

See the Support Group page for details of our many regional and metropolitan Support Groups

A support group is an informal gathering of people who share similar experiences, situations or problems. One of Parkinson’s Queensland’s most valuable and popular services is the development and coordination of a network of some 20 Parkinson’s support groups throughout metropolitan and regional Queensland.

Parkinson’s support group members can offer each other emotional and practical support. Getting together with other people who are facing similar challenges allows everyone to share feelings, resources and experiences. As well as providing benefits from the exchange of practical information, support groups also provide motivation and inspiration to help you deal positively with the changes to your lifestyle. They also give you a chance to meet new people, which help to break down any feelings of isolation associated with the disease.

Support group meetings range from group discussions, to educational sessions by guest speakers, social outings or just sharing a cuppa. To join a group please select your nearest group and contact number below for further detail.

• Toll Free information Line 1800 644 189
• Specialist Library Service providing books, journal articles,  DVD’s and videos
• Information Kits
• Quarterly Newsletter
• web site www.parkinsons-qld.org.au

Support

Over 20 Support Groups throughout Queensland provide friendship, mutual support and information. Meetings may include practical tips and advice, group discussions, social outings and education sessions from health professionals.

Education

• Seminars for Recently Diagnosed
• Education sessions on symptom management
• Resources for Carers and Families
• In service education workshops provided to health professionals in accommodation facilities, respite, and health services to improve their understanding of Parkinson’s and caring for people with Parkinson’s

Advocacy

As the peak state-wide agency, we represent the needs and interests of people with Parkinson’s to all levels of government, seeking improved funding for services, research and awareness. We are also represented on the national peak body, Parkinson’s Australia, and network as a member of peak neurological service organizations in Australia.

Referral

We provide information and advice on accessible services, provided where possible in your local community, and relevant to your specific needs

Awareness

Improving the communities understanding of Parkinson’s is a priority. We regularly promote Parkinson’s awareness via the media and through fundraising initiatives, particularly during Parkinson’s Awareness Week and International Parkinson’s Day.