Serena Li, inaugural Chair of Centenary’s ReST Association

This initiative provides a platform for research assistants, technical officers and other research-related staff at Centenary to connect, exchange ideas and build a strong sense of community.

A core focus of the Association is to promote professional development, career progression and mentorship among its members. 

“I believe that by bringing together individuals with diverse skills and backgrounds from across Centenary’s many laboratories, we can accomplish even more in our workplace,” says Serena.

“Through collaboration, we can share knowledge, support each other’s careers and make Centenary an even more rewarding place to work.”

With two years of experience at Centenary, Serena is a part of the Institute’s Centre for Cardiovascular Research, which is dedicated to improving the diagnosis and treatment of genetic heart diseases, and reducing the risk of sudden cardiac death, particularly in young people.

Her role combines laboratory administration with hands-on research. A large part of her work involves culturing and maintaining stem cells, which are turned into cardiomyocytes (heart cells) to create a ‘disease in a dish’ model. 

“This innovative approach allows us to investigate the cellular changes and mechanisms driving genetic heart disease from patient cells.” explains Serena. 

“Using heart cells also provides a platform for testing new drugs and therapies, all with the ultimate goal of improving patient care and reducing the risk of sudden cardiac death.”

Outside of the laboratory, Serena has a passion for baking—a hobby she embraced as a child while making cookies and muffins with her mother. 

Her enthusiasm for baking grew after watching a popular TV cooking show, which inspired her to master the art of making macarons, a delicate and challenging French confection.

During her honours year at university, baking became a go-to activity to help unwind on weekends. 

These days, she especially enjoys making cakes and tarts, along with cinnamon rolls and hot cross buns, which she says “look and smell amazing” fresh from the oven.

Her delicious creations have graced Centenary events, such as the ‘R U OK? Bake Sale’, where her meringue cupcakes were a standout. Her baked treats also often feature at her team’s morning teas.

“I love the challenge and sense of accomplishment that comes with baking from scratch. In many ways, baking is just another form of science,” Serena explains.

“Just like in the lab, precision is key—you need to follow each step meticulously and get your measurements right. It’s all about being methodical and paying attention to detail.”

To find out more about Centenary’s groundbreaking research into cardiovascular disease, click here.