Big ideas, bold science: Joy’s global impact from UQ

A passion for science that started in childhood is now changing lives across the world. Based at UQ’s St Lucia campus, Associate Professor Joy Wolfram leads two fast-paced research labs that are taking on some of the world’s biggest health challenges, from breast cancer to heart disease.

A childhood interest becomes a lifelong passion

Originally from Finland, Joy discovered her love of science early. After a visit to the vet with her dog, she became interested in microbiology and started running her own experiments at home. Her parents were shocked when she told them the fridge was full of bacteria, but for Joy, it was the start of something big.

Global experience, global impact

Joy’s academic path has taken her to multiple countries. She completed her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Finland, with research placements in Sweden and Canada, and later worked in United States hospitals for 10 years, collaborating closely with doctors. Her PhD, a joint program between institutions in China and the US, further strengthened her international perspective. Now based at UQ, Joy continues to build global networks that drive pioneering research.

Collaboration without borders

For Joy, working with researchers around the world is one of the most important parts of the job. Her teams regularly share ideas and work on difficult challenges together with international collaborators. Students are right at the heart of this work, bringing fresh perspectives, creative thinking and a new kind of energy to the environment.

Empowering the next generation

At UQ, Joy dedicates about 80% of her time to research and 20% to teaching. Her students take on research that has a global impact, with some publishing academic papers or even launching startups before they graduate. Joy is a huge advocate for UQ’s summer and winter programs, electives and extended placements, which give students the chance to explore the world of research and discover where their curiosity can take them.

Joy is a passionate mentor, supporting initiatives like the Three Minute Thesis competition, helping students turn complex research into clear, compelling stories for any audience. For Joy, one of the best parts of her work is seeing students grow into confident researchers and future leaders in science.