NHMRC recognises researchers' hard work

Two hard-working researchers have been recognised with NHMRC awards for their contributions to NHMRC peer review and ethical standards in research.

Human molecular geneticist Professor Ron Trent from the University of Sydney has received the NHMRC’s 2012 Outstanding Contribution Award for his extensive involvement in NHMRC peer review since the mid-1980s.

Trent has also served the NHMRC as chair and member of various committees since 1994. He was a Member of Council from 2006-2012 and is currently a Member of the Research Translation Faculty.

“NHMRC’s Outstanding Contribution Award recognises a researcher who is prepared to tackle the tough health issues facing Australia,” NHMRC CEO Professor Warwick Anderson said.

NHMRC also recognised Trent for his pioneering work including the development of DNA testing facilities for clinical care and the education of postgraduate scholars in laboratory genetics.

Trent is currently a director at Sydney’s Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, executive director of SUPAMAC (a high throughput DNA analysis service) and a board member with the Garvan.

Professor Jock Findlay from Prince Henry’s Institute in Victoria has been acknowledged with the NHMRC 2012 Ethics Award for his significant contribution to high ethical standards in health and medical research at a national level.

Findlay’s work with the NHMRC led to the development of the ethical guidance of the use of human embryos in medical research.

“Professor Findlay has been a leader in the development of Australian ethical standards, most notably as the inaugural chair of the NHMRC Embryo Research Licensing Committee. He established high quality protocols and procedures that resulted in public confidence in this contested area of research,” Professor Anderson said.

Findlay has also served NHMRC as chair and member of various committees and panels since 1981. He was a member between 2003 and 2009.

Findlay also chaired the Infertility Treatment Authority of Victoria from 2001-2009 and is well recognised for his visionary leadership in the wider professional community, including 20 years of work with the World Health Organization.

Currently, Professor Findlay heads the Ovarian Biology Laboratory at Prince Henry’s Institute and is director of research at the Royal Women’s Hospital, Melbourne.