We are pleased to announce our newest PhD Scholar, Sherelle Casey.
Sherelle was recently awarded the APS/APRA/Seqirus #1 PhD Scholarship and commences her studies in August 2016.
Sherelle’s research topic is “Cannabinoids for neuropathic pain” and Dr Christopher Vaughan will supervise her.
Following completion of her secondary schooling in 2008, Sherelle moved from Sydney to Adelaide to pursue her dream of becoming a veterinarian. She spent 6 years in Adelaide and graduated from the University of Adelaide with a Bachelor of Science (pre-veterinary) in 2011 and with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 2014. During her veterinary studies, she had a knee surgery that resulted in her developing chronic neuropathic pain. Consequently, she has a firsthand knowledge of the limited diagnostic and therapeutic options that are currently available for neuropathic pain. This has resulted in her developing a strong interest in new and improved therapeutic options for chronic pain and was the driving force behind her decision to pursue a career in medical research. To achieve this Sherelle commenced a Master of Philosophy with the University of Sydney’s Pain Management Research Institute in 2015, and has now transferred to Doctor of Philosophy. Her research during her Masters, which will be continued through her PhD, focusses on use of the constituents of cannabis (phytocannabinoids) for chronic neuropathic pain. To date, she has been examining the active ingredients of Sativex, D9-tertahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD), in animal models to determine whether there is scientific basis behind the use of this combination. Sherelle will also examine whether other phytocannabinoids are effective against neuropathic pain. She will finally examine the effects of these compounds at a cellular level to determine ionic targets. During her free time, Sherelle enjoys spending time with her family including her dog, catching up with friends, reading, and colouring.
Australian Pain Society 