Researcher Bryony Coleman predicts that in 50 years the technique she is working on may be one that helps restore hearing to the totally deaf. PICTURE: JOE ARMAO Photo: Joe Armao

THE bionic ear is one of Australia's proudest achievements, but a Melbourne researcher's work could take the fight against deafness to a new level.

Bryony Coleman, at the Eye and Ear Hospital, is conducting world-first research into the potential of stem cells to regrow the nerves that connect the ear to the brain.

If successful, the technique could be used to improve the quality of hearing in people with cochlear implants — and one day it may even help restore hearing to those who are totally deaf.