Mater Medical Research Institute appoints new Director

The Mater Medical Research Institute (MMRI) is delighted to announce the appointment of Professor John Prins to the role of Chief Executive Officer and Institute Director.

In recognition of the research diversity that occurs at Mater, the MMRI, in conjunction with Mater Health Services, has agreed to consolidate all major research activities into one research entity.

The new approach will bring together all Mater research and researchers to maximise interaction with clinicians and ensure the most efficient and effective research support services.

Professor Prins is an active clinician-scientist and a key opinion leader in diabetes and endocrinology in Australia. He sits on numerous national and international scientific, clinical and educational committees and boards for the National Health and Medical Research Council, non-government organisations and industry.

Professor Prins has a strong educational focus and gives more than 50 presentations per year at local, national and international scientific and clinical meetings.

He undertook his clinical training in endocrinology in Brisbane and completed a PhD in adipose tissue biology at The University of Queensland.

Professor Prins’ first postdoctoral research appointment was at the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom, based at the world renowned Addenbrooke’s Hospital. He returned to Brisbane in 1998 after being awarded the prestigious Wellcome International Senior Research Fellowship.

Professor Ian Zimmer, Chairman of the MMRI Board welcomed Professor Prins saying, “We are delighted John has agreed to join us.”

“The MMRI is going through an exciting time of change and growth and we are confident that John’s appointment will serve to enhance an already well respected institution,” he continued.

Professor Prins said he was pleased to accept the role saying, “I look forward to working with the very talented team at MMRI, to develop its excellent science and further the integration with clinicians.”

“There are some wonderful opportunities ahead and I am excited to be leading the MMRI into those times,” he finished.

Professor Prins will commence his role on 5 October 2009.