Life-saving heart research

From harnessing smarter technologies to pioneering new approaches, in 2025 we’re investing $4.2 million into vital heart research.

 

2025 grants

Impact of previous research

See the impact of previous heart research and training we’ve funded that’s driving change.

 

Research impact

Past research grant recipients

Learn about some of the past researchers and health professionals we’ve supported.

 

Past recipients

Hear more about this year’s research funding

Study could help detect heart defects before birth

A New Zealand study led by Dr Teena Gamage may revolutionise early detection of congenital heart disease in unborn babies, a condition that impacts around 1 in 100 births.

 

Read about Teena’s research

An image of Dr. Teena Gamage
An image of Dr. Catherine Tsai

Oral vaccine could prevent rheumatic heart disease

Dr Catherine Tsai is developing an oral or nasal vaccine that could help eradicate rheumatic fever which leads to one of the country’s most persistent and preventable heart conditions, rheumatic heart disease. 

 

Read about Catherine’s research

Can the heart heal without lifelong medications? 

Researchers will assess whether heart function recovery after a heart attack is due to medication or natural healing, potentially allowing some patients to safely reduce long-term treatment. 

 

Read about Jocelyne’s research

An image of Dr. Jocelyne Benatar

Gut bacteria may predict heart failure risk

A New Zealand study will explore whether gut bacteria can predict heart failure risk after a heart attack, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis, personalised treatment, and new ways to protect heart health. 

 

Read about Sarah’s research 

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New heart scan tech for heart disease diagnosis

New high-resolution heart scan tech could transform diagnosis and treatment in New Zealand. Dr Charlotte Greer is exploring its potential to detect disease earlier and reduce the need for multiple or invasive tests. 

 

Read about Charlotte’s research

An image of Dr. Charlotte Greer
An image of Dr. Shu Meng

New heart tech for atrial fibrillation treatment

A new heart mapping tech is being trialled that could make atrial fibrillation treatment faster, more accurate, and reduce repeat procedures – offering hope to thousands of patients. 

 

Read about Shu’s research

Global study targets rare heart condition in women

A global trial, led in part by New Zealand researchers, will test safer treatments for SCAD – a rare heart condition affecting women – offering hope for clearer guidelines and better outcomes worldwide.

 

Read about the research

An image of Dr. Caroline Alsweiler
An image of NZ students from the University of Canterbury working in the Heart Hackathon competition.

NZ students in global artificial heart contest

University of Canterbury students will showcase an artificial heart at a global competition, offering hope to thousands of patients who face long waits for donor heart transplants. 

 

Read about the students’ research 

New research may predict heart disease risk early

A new study will explore how genetic biomarkers could predict heart disease risk earlier, helping identify individuals who may be missed by current screening tools and allowing for earlier, more targeted prevention strategies.

 

Read about Janny’s research 
 

An image of Dr. Janny Lau

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Impact of previous research

Past research grant recipients

About the grants