Natasha Abeysekera Australasian Society for Dermatology Research Annual Scientific Meeting 2024

Natasha Abeysekera

Dr Natasha Abeysekera is currently working as a Dermatology unaccredited registrar (Principal House Officer) at the Sunshine Coast University Hospital. Natasha is also currently undertaking a Master of Philosophy at the University of Queensland. Natasha completed a Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery at the University of Tasmania in 2019. Dr Abeysekera was the recipient of the 2019 Andrews Plates Memorial Prize in Internal Medicine for demonstrating high proficiency and interest in general medicine and medical subspecialties. During her studies at the University of Tasmania, Natasha was also the recipient of the 2018 School of Medicine Summer Research Scholarship for her project ‘Evaluating the need for an integrated geriatric service in older general surgery patients’. Natasha was also the recipient of the inaugural Australian and New Zealand Society of Nephrology Green Nephrology Action Team award. This was in recognition of her project investigating environmental suitability across tertiary dialysis facilities in Tasmania. With a passion for equitable access to health care, Dr Abeysekera has completed a Master of Public Health at the University of Queensland. Natasha’s passion for advocacy has led to her considerable involvement with the Australian Medical Association, Queensland Medical Women’s Society and the Royal Brisbane & Women’s Hospital RMO Society. As deputy and co-chair of the Australian Medical Association Queensland council of doctors in training in 2021 and 2022, Dr Abeysekera has been integral in organising conferences and managing workforce concerns. Natasha has also spoken at local and international events, including the Women in Medicine breakfast and the Commission on the Status of Women webinar. In recognition of her outstanding leadership and achievements, Dr Natasha Abeysekera was named the Australian Medical Association National Doctor in Training of the year for 2023. Natasha's thesis is focused on knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours regarding balancing the risks and benefits of sun exposure. Her advisory team includes Professor Rachel Neale, Dr Leith Banney & Dr Lena Von Schuckmann.