Mater Research is to continuing to build the capacity and productivity of the institute through a number of new appointments.

Mater Research would like to welcome Professor David Hume and Professor Kim Summers. Professor Hume has an extensive career at UQ’s Institute for Molecular Bioscience and previously held the position as Director of the Roslin Institute in Scotland for ten years. David’s interests in macrophage biology, inflammatory pathophysiology and transcriptional regulation will extend Mater Research’s capacity in genomics and inflammatory biology. Professor Summers currently holds a personal chair in Comparative Genomics at the Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies at The University of Edinburgh, and brings significant expertise in genetic analytic methodologies and in clinical genetics.

Professor Mike O’Sullivan has been appointed to co-lead the Neurosciences and Cognitive Health Program together with Associate Professor Paul Dawson. Professor Jean Pierre Levesque has been appointed to co-lead the Cancer Biology and Care Program together with Professor Janet Hardy. Dr Anne Leditschke and Dr John Bingley have been appointed to co-lead the Acute Care Program.

Dr Adam Ewing has been appointed as leader of the newly formed Translational Bioinformatics group within the Cancer Biology and Care Program.  Dr Jake Begun has been appointed to lead the Inflammatory Bowel Disease group, previously led by Professor Florin who will continue to be an active member and mentor to the members of the laboratory.

Deputy Director Research Professor Mike McGuckin said he would like to thank all outgoing leaders for the contributions they have made.

“I would like to recognise Professor John Hooper and Professor Tim Florin, who are standing down from their lead roles, for their significant contributions to research at Mater. I would also like to convey the institute’s thanks to Dr Suyinn Chong for her contributions to research in our Mother’s, Babies’ and Women’s Health Program.”