This NHMRC funded project aims to reduce the risk of hearing loss during surgery or medical interventions, such as chemotherapy to treat cancer. Hearing loss during cochlear implantation is of particular interest, since the aim of implant surgery is now to combine both natural hearing and the cochlear implant. This is a translational research project that is defining clinically applicable ways of delivering protective drugs to the inner ear prior to medical and surgical interventions. We conduct basic research into the modes and timing of delivery of therapeutic drugs to the inner ear, and clinical trials. This project would suit those with an interest in surgery, clinical medicine, audiology, hearing sciences ir boimedical engineering.