Meet Lizzie Thomas

Dr Elizabeth (Lizzie) Thomas has been at Central Clinical School for almost a decade, having completed her Honours and PhD at the School before staying on as a researcher. She is currently the manager of the Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Clinical Research Unit at the Monash Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre (MAPrc) and a research fellow at the HER Centre Australia. 

How did you become interested in mental health? What excites you about this area?

I initially got into mental health research as I wanted an Honours project that was more clinical rather than lab based. While my research focus has evolved throughout my time at MAPrc, my passion for mental health and cognition has remained constant, whether it be in schizophrenia as part of my PhD, in relation to hormonal fluctuations in women or in TMS. Studying cognition allows me to explore the intricacies of memory, attention, decision-making, and problem-solving, all of which I find fascinating!

Can you tell us more about your work?

TMS, or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, uses magnetic fields to safely and painlessly stimulate specific areas of the brain. This stimulation changes the brain activity, which then alleviates mental health symptoms. We target specific brain regions associated with the symptoms we aim to treat; for example, we use TMS to treat depression by stimulating the area of the brain associated with mood regulation and emotional processing. This non-invasive technique provides a safe, effective alternative to traditional medications and is often used in those who respond poorly to other treatments.

I am also involved in research exploring hormones and cognition in women at the HER Centre. Sex hormones such as estrogen and progesterone have been shown to influence mood, emotional regulation and cognitive processes. Our research is interested in better understanding these links between hormones, mood and cognition, particularly across the menstrual cycle where sex hormones are constantly fluctuating. We use a novel approach of eye tracking as a precise, robust measure of cognition.

What is the impact (or potential impact) of your research on health?

TMS is most commonly used to treat depression. However, our TMS Clinical Research Unit at MAPrc is conducting several pilot studies exploring TMS as a novel treatment for conditions such as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). We are on the cutting edge of technology and neuroscience, exploring exciting frontiers and conducting world first research. Our research has the potential to significantly improve mental health outcomes and quality of life for many people. Many participants in our TMS studies have exhausted other treatment options, and TMS becomes their last hope. Witnessing the profound difference it can make is incredibly fulfilling.

What is your proudest achievement to date?

My proudest achievement is undoubtedly juggling a career in research with the joys and responsibilities of motherhood. I had my daughter while completing my PhD and had to finish it with a 16-month-old toddler. I got a research grant to collaborate in Germany during my maternity leave and I was able to take my daughter and my husband (who was a great support!) with me. I had my son at the end of last year and submitted an Ideas Grant during my maternity leave, which was another personal achievement.

What makes CCS a great research environment for you?

CCS has been a great environment to foster collaboration and provide numerous opportunities for professional growth. The networking opportunities have allowed me to work closely with fellow researchers, leading to a rich exchange of ideas for grant applications. CCS has also offered a plethora of events and activities that have both enriched my academic journey but also contributed to building my CV. I have been able to present my research, be a student mentor and be part of symposium planning and ECR committees, which have enabled me to grow as a researcher.

What are your career goals?

In regard to my research, I want to delve deeper into the potential of TMS to improve cognitive performance across mental health conditions and to optimise such treatment. I hope to not only contribute to the ever-evolving landscape of neuroscience, but also guide and mentor students to embark on their own scholarly journeys of discovery and innovation. My aspiration is to also become a lecturer, where I can engage with students and share my knowledge to inspire and empower the next generation of mental health researchers.

Do you have any advice for young researchers?

My advice is to have a solid career plan, but also be open to adapting along the way. My academic journey has not been a straight path, and I could not have predicted where I am now. Embracing challenges as chances to learn and grow has been crucial in getting me here. Most importantly, remember to balance your personal and professional life for your well-being and overall success in the long term.