As COVID-19 increases pressure upon Australia’s health system, a new podcast is set to give audiences an upbeat look at the surprising lives of local medical researchers.

Its creators hope The Scientist and the… will breakdown stigmas and showcase work-life balance with young researchers from the Illawarra Medical Health and Research Institute.

With a growing appreciation for the intensity of the medical research field, IMHRI social media coordinator and series presenter Lizzie Jack said the podcast served as a reminder for listeners to keep in touch with their interests outside of work.

Ms Jack said the show highlights the personalities of young, local researchers in addition to exploring the ground-breaking research taking place in the region.

The show will premiere in the coming fortnight and is available on all major podcasting platforms, as well as on the IMHRI podcast page.