Meet the AEP team – Rachel Hughes

Meet Rachel Hughes, Australian Epilepsy Project’s Clinical Research Coordinator.

She has a background in psychology, mental health, and interventional psychiatric research. And is passionate about translational, innovative, best practice research.

What is your role at the AEP?

I helped set up the recruitment processes and protocols for participant referral into the AEP. I am also involved in growing the AEP national hub network.

Why the AEP?

Quite honestly the project was inspiring. It is more than just a normal research project; unlike any I've been involved in before. Joining a team of brilliant people who share a vision of truly benefiting people’s lives, drew me in.

What do you hope to achieve?

I really hope to be a part of a bigger picture change in the world of epilepsy and seizures. If one day I can look back and know I played a hand in adding a positive impact into as many people’s lives as possible through the AEP, that would be an amazing achievement for me.

Proudest moment/achievement?

Moving from the Pilot into the Main study of the AEP was huge this year. I think the whole team should be proud of the amount of work that went into reaching that milestone.

All-time favourite meal?

Japanese is my favourite! Anything on the menu that mentions spicy salmon or tuna.

Current streaming recommendation?

The Bear! Or the new season of The Crown!

Current book you are reading?

The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman

What advice would you give your 12-year-old self?

Stop putting so much importance on what other people think, stop straightening your curly hair and ideally don’t go to the 2010 AFL Grand Final Replay…

Who would you most like to meet, or have met?

I haven’t met anyone famous! If he was free for a coffee, I think David Attenborough would have some great stories.

Finish this sentence… I believe the most important thing in life is… surrounding yourself with loved ones and being happy.

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