Dr Hanane Belhoul-Fakir is an early-career postdoctoral researcher in the Targeted Drug Delivery, Imaging and Therapy Laboratory at the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research. Her research focuses on atherosclerosis, the leading underlying cause of stroke, limb ischaemia, and heart attacks. She investigates the interplay between arterial injury and atherosclerosis, with the goal of identifying biomarkers of high-risk, rupture-prone plaques that could enable earlier detection, improved risk stratification, and the development of novel therapeutic targets.

Beyond her research, Hanane is a dedicated advocate for early- and mid-career researchers (EMCRs) across Western Australia. She currently serves as Chair of the Perkins EMCR Committee and previously held the role of Interim Chair of the Western Australian Cardiovascular Research Alliance (WACRA) EMCR Committee. Through these leadership positions, she promotes professional development, interdisciplinary collaboration, and greater visibility for emerging researchers.

Hanane is also a guest lecturer at The University of Western Australia and Edith Cowan University, where she contributes to the education and mentoring of the next generation of scientists. Passionate about bridging the gap between science and society, she actively engages in public outreach and science communication, translating complex biomedical research into accessible knowledge that informs, inspires, and empowers diverse audiences.