DR MANASI MURTHY MITTINTY (SHE/HER)
About Dr Manasi Murthy Mittinty
Dr. Manasi Murthy Mittinty is a prominent health leader recognised for her pioneering work in pain management and mental health equity, particularly for culturally diverse and First Nations communities in Australia. Her personal experience with chronic pain following a severe accident inspired her career in medicine and research. Dr. Manasi Murthy is founder of the CHERISH project, which focuses on developing individualized care programs that integrate mental health and social support to improve patient outcomes.
Her work emphasizes the importance of cultural context in managing chronic pain, advocating for inclusivity across sex, gender, religion, and race to enhance patient care. As a Senior Lecturer at Flinders University and a Harvard-trained researcher, she has led significant initiatives such as exploring impact of dyadic coping for children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis and their parents. Dr. Manasi Murthy has contributed to the academic community with over 30 peer-reviewed publications, including a notable joint first-author article in The Lancet, alongside more than 20 consumer articles that have reached a global audience.
As a fervent advocate for leadership development, mentorship, and patient rights, Dr. Manasi Murthy is a highly sought-after speaker at various prestigious forums. Her research endeavours have fostered international collaborations and have sparked important conversations about chronic pain’s impact on families and the need for early intervention and support systems.
Dr. Manasi Murthy has received numerous esteemed accolades, including the Gargi Science Award, Women’s Agenda Emerging Leader in Health Award and the Hind Rattan-Jewel of India Award, which underscore her remarkable contributions to advancing mental health equity. Her leadership plays a crucial role in driving transformative progress within the healthcare industry, championing a holistic perspective on well-being that integrates both physical and mental health concerns. In 2025, she was appointed as the Director of Membership for the Harvard Alumni for Global Development Leadership Team, a role that allows her to connect with Harvard alumni worldwide and work together on meaningful global initiatives.
Celebrating Manasi: The impact of her work
“This award recognises Dr Manasi Murthy Mittinty for her exceptional leadership in advancing healthcare equity in the areas of chronic pain management and mental health.
Her pioneering, globally recognised research and commitment to inclusivity have made a profound impact, especially for culturally and linguistically diverse groups and Indigenous communities. Through her tireless advocacy, medical research initiatives, and sharing her personal journey, she has ignited crucial conversations on inclusivity and equity in healthcare.
This award celebrates Dr Manasi’s vision, resilience, and leadership in breaking down barriers and advancing healthcare for often marginalised groups.” Says General Manager of Women & Leadership Australia, Karen Surmon.