Ute Vollmer-Conna has extensive training in the rare combination of psychology (learning and behaviour, neuropsychology and statistics) and laboratory immunology; and a doctorate in the cross-disciplinary field of Psychoneuroimmunology. She is a registered psychologist and had has a Germany qualification in physiotherapy. Her current position is as Associate Professor in Psychiatry at the University of NSW.

Ute Vollmer-Conna is an internationally recognized leader in multidisciplinary research examining the acute sickness response to common infections, and post-infective syndromes of chronic fatigue and depression. Her standing in this field has evolved from a dedication to novel research into the functional connections between systems subserving homeostasis and body integrity - particularly the nervous system and the immune system. More recently, this journey has led her to an appreciation of the autonomic nervous system as an important player in maintaining health and wellbeing.  Her recently established Human Autonomic Laboratory enables detailed exploration of the diverse roles of the autonomic nervous system in modulating immune responses, and in supporting physical and mental health.