From physiotherapist to full-time researcher, meet Luke Churchill
From the performing arts to allied health, real estate to academia, our researchers and team members come from varied backgrounds, helping CCRG to become the largest preclinical ICU research group in Australasia. Our multidisciplinary team consists of physicians, surgeons, nurses, statisticians, and allied health professional, all committed to furthering clinical understand and improving treatment outcomes for hard-to-treat diseases.
For senior physiotherapist/researcher, Luke Churchill, joining the Critical Care Research Group has helped accelerate his research career.
Senior physiotherapist and researcher Luke Churchill
“Prior to joining CCRG, I was working full-time as a clinical physiotherapist at The Prince Charles Hospital. While I was involved a little in research in that position, I can now focus on this full-time and I'm learning at a rapid rate."
Having been successful in receiving several research grants and scholarships, Luke is involved in several studies at CCRG while finishing his PhD.
“As part of my role at CCRG, I’m investigating whether lung ultrasound can predict post-operative pulmonary complications in high-risk post-operative patients. We’re also examining the benefits of exercising tracheostomised mechanically ventilated patients with a speaking valve – a topic I’m very passionate about given my background in clinical physiotherapy,” says Luke.
From his time working on the ward, Luke knows all too well that critically ill patients are at particular risk of developing further conditions that can affect their health and recovery and require close monitoring.
“Our research is aimed at improving rapid diagnoses of lung conditions after surgery and helping get patients the right treatment as quickly as possible. We feel this is extremely important in critical care, and in healthcare in general.” says Luke.
“I would encourage anyone genuinely passionate about improving patient outcomes, to consider applying to the CCRG Fellowship Programme. If you’re looking for guidance to help progress your research career, CCRG offers an incredibly supportive network.”
Outside his work as a researcher and physiotherapist, Luke regularly performs as a musician. “I am lucky enough to follow both passions; music and healthcare. Don’t be surprised if you catch me singing in the office!”
“Research that can help lower these risks and improve outcomes by contributing to the progression of healthcare is so important, and it’s what CCRG is focused on each and every day.”
Meet other members of the CCRG team
CCRG Fellowship Programme now open
Learn more about unique ways to advance your research career with the Critical Care Research Group. From Estonia to Kenya, Italy to Japan, our Fellows come from all corners of the globe, with enthusiasm, dedication, hard work and integrity, as we look at ways to advance clinical understanding of critical illness.
Interested in joining us? Read more and apply below.