As an early career researcher, I was very fortunate to receive an AEA Early Career Travel Award late last year, which enabled me to attend the annual Schizophrenia International Research Society conference which was held in Orlando Florida, USA in April 2019. This meeting is attended by many highly recognised schizophrenia researchers from around the world and as a researcher based in Perth attending this conference provides an opportunity to hear about new and often yet to be published psychosis research.
I was unsuccessful in my application for a symposium on cannabis, but as a result of this submission I have established links with a number of key international cannabis researchers who I had asked to be part of my symposium. I did however present a poster entitled Cannabis use and sex differences in the cardiometabolic health of men and women with a psychotic illness (see picture below of me and Prof Vera Morgan)
In addition, I was able to meet and establish new connections with a number of psychosis researchers whose work focuses on my areas of interest: cannabis use and also improving physical health. I was also able to strengthen existing networks and discuss future collaborations. I am very grateful to the AEA for giving me this funding and invaluable opportunity.
