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Ilona Juraskova
Professor of Health Psychology and A/Head of Postgraduate Research Education, School of Psychology, University of Sydney
Professional Background
Ilona Juraskova is a highly respected Professor of Health Psychology at the University of Sydney, where her extensive career has been marked by remarkable leadership and dedication to academic and research excellence. With over twenty years of experience, Professor Juraskova has established herself as an authority in health psychology, particularly focusing on psycho-oncology and the psychosocial experiences of patients with chronic health conditions. Throughout her career, she has placed a strong emphasis on cultivating an environment of respect, transparency, and approachability, reflecting her clinical psychology background.
As a culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) female academic, Ilona champions empathetic, relationship-oriented experiences, striving to create a supportive environment for students, colleagues, and collaborators alike. By fostering connections between individuals and their academic and medical communities, she remains committed to elevating the educational experience and ensuring that everyone involved feels valued and motivated.
As a health psychology researcher, Professor Juraskova has conducted both quantitative and qualitative psychosocial research, with a special focus on the journey of patients from diagnosis through treatment, survivorship, and ultimately to palliative care and bereavement. Her pioneering work has had a significant impact on how healthcare providers engage with patients, effectively empowering them and their families during challenging times.
Education and Achievements
Ilona Juraskova's educational journey is impressive, having earned her Bachelor's degree with First Class Honours in Psychology from the University of Sydney, where she achieved a final mark of 92. This strong foundation in psychology laid the groundwork for her Master's in Clinical Psychology and her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) with a focus on Psycho-oncology, wherein her thesis was awarded Cum Laude without emendations, further showcasing her exemplary scholarly contributions.
Throughout her academic career, Professor Juraskova has made substantial contributions to the field of health psychology, evidenced by her prolific output of over 100 published articles in international scientific journals. Her research not only enriches the academic landscape but also directly influences clinical practices, benefiting patients and their families on a global scale.
A testament to her exceptional skills and research acumen, Ilona has successfully secured more than $7 million in competitive research funding, providing critical support for her innovative projects. Her expertise in medical communication and the development of evidence-based interventions has garnered her international recognition. This recognition is also a reflection of her commitment to empowering patients through enhanced engagement in their healthcare practices.
Leadership Roles and Contributions
Professor Juraskova has held several key leadership roles at the University of Sydney, including serving as the Associate Head of Postgraduate Research Education in the School of Psychology and as Deputy Director of the Centre for Medical Psychology and Evidence-based Decision-making (CeMPED). These roles showcase her active involvement in shaping postgraduate research education and her dedication to improving medical psychology practices.
She has also served as an Associate Professor in Health Psychology and Senior Lecturer, further underscoring her commitment to education. As a Research Fellow awarded an Early Career Research Fellowship by the Cancer Institute of NSW, Ilona made significant strides as a Research Coordinator at the Medical Psychology Research Unit, contributing to crucial advancements in the psychological care of cancer patients.
In leading the healthCARE research group, Ilona Juraskova has been instrumental in developing and evaluating high-quality decision support tools and training modules designed for patients, families, and clinicians. These resources have been effectively implemented in clinical practices across Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, The Netherlands, and the USA, marking a considerable impact on the healthcare sector.
Achievements
Professor Juraskova’s accomplishments extend beyond her research and academic contributions; her innovative spirit and passion for patient care have led to numerous accolades and recognition within the fields of psychology and medical communication. She has championed the need for effective patient engagement, advocating for the incorporation of psychological insights into medical practices to improve patient outcomes.
Through her commitment to comprehensive healthcare, she has greatly advanced the understanding of psycho-oncology. By focusing on the psychosocial dimensions of cancer care, she has contributed significantly to the evidence base surrounding effective communication strategies with patients and their families, ensuring they are better equipped to navigate the complexities of their healthcare journeys.
As a keynote speaker, Professor Juraskova shares her insights and findings at various conferences and seminars, greatly influencing a myriad of audiences ranging from fellow researchers to medical practitioners. Her ability to translate complex research findings into practical applications makes her a valuable asset to the field of health psychology.
Conclusion
In summary, Ilona Juraskova is a trailblazing figure in health psychology, with a distinguished career characterized by her leadership, research prowess, and a profound commitment to enhancing patient care through psychological insight. Her extensive contributions and unwavering dedication to fostering supportive academic and clinical environments not only benefit her immediate community but also resonate on a global scale. Professor Juraskova remains a respected voice in her field, advocating for improved healthcare experiences and lasting engagement between patients and providers. Her ongoing work and impactful research will continue to inspire future generations of researchers, healthcare professionals, and students alike.
