Iona Novak

Associate Professor Iona Novak is the Head of Research of the Cerebral Palsy Alliance Research Institute, School of Medicine, University of Notre Dame Australia. Iona is a Fulbright Scholar and winner of the University of Sydney Award for Professional Achievement. In 2005 she co-founded the Cerebral Palsy Alliance Research Institute with the Chief Executive Officer for the purpose of: research development and dissemination, leading to prevention, cure and reduction of adverse effects for those living with cerebral palsy.

Driven by an internal belief that healthcare truly has the potential to change lives, Iona has pursued projects and roles with the greatest possible impact on children and families today and tomorrow’s world. For example, leadership of the Australian Cerebral Palsy Register. Iona has a background in occupational therapy, with a particular interest in neuroplasticity. Her PhD was completed at the University of Western Sydney, in the area of home program intervention for children with cerebral palsy.

In her current work, she has continued her research interest in evidence-based practice, knowledge translation, goal-directed training, botulinum toxin and population studies for cerebral palsy. In the last 10 years she has given over 90 international and national keynotes and invited lectures and been award over $11mil in research grants funding.