Graduate Research Degree Awarded - Emma Webb

Congratulations to Emma Webb - Graduate Research Degree Awarded 13th January 2026.

Degree: Doctor of Philosophy

Supervisors: Associate Professor Valerie Sung (Primary), Professor Jan Hodgson, Professor Gary Rance, Professor Cheryl Jones

Advisory Committee: Professor David Amor (Chair), Associate Professor Susan Donath, Dr Peter Carew

Thesis Title: Understanding factors facilitating early screening for congenital cytomegalovirus in infants

Thesis Summary: This thesis investigated factors facilitating early targeted screening for congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV), the leading infectious cause of permanent hearing loss and neurodevelopmental disabilities in children. The research completed assessed the feasibility and acceptability of salivary cCMV screening from both parental and healthcare staff perspectives. Findings demonstrated that targeted cCMV screening is feasible and generally acceptable, with 76% of eligible families completing screening within the necessary 21 days from birth. Key challenges identified include the need for increased public awareness, staff training, and balancing cCMV screening with existing hearing screening processes. Addressing these factors could significantly enhance the implementation and effectiveness of targeted cCMV screening programmes.

Date awarded: 13th January 2026