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Cancer expert to direct Monash Institute of Medical Research

31 August 2005

One of the most accomplished cancer experts in the US, Professor Bryan Williams, will take up the directorship of the Monash Institute of Medical Research from January 2006.

Professor Williams (pictured) is chairman of the Department of Cancer Biology at the Lerner Research Institute of the Cleveland Clinic Foundation in Cleveland, a position he has held since 1991.

The Monash Institute of Medical Research is an initiative of Monash University and Southern Health. The institute's acting director, Professor Adrian Walker, said Professor Williams was a well-credentialled researcher who would be an exceptional leader and advocate for the institute.

"Bryan's outstanding abilities will enhance the institute's growth and prominence in research," Professor Walker said.

"His extensive skills will aid our partners in the Monash health research precinct and the university to achieve goals in both medical and biotechnology research. He is a worthy successor to the outgoing director and institute founder, Professor David de Kretser."

Professor Williams has a distinguished history in cancer research. He has worked in New Zealand, England, Canada and America, specialising in the molecular biology of tumour suppression, and focusing on the role tumour suppressor genes may play in regulating cell growth, cell maturation and programmed cell death.

He is internationally recognised for his research on Wilms Tumour -- a cancer of the kidney that primarily affects children -- and for studies on the protein kinase R, an important cellular signalling molecule.

Monash dean of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Professor Edward Byrne, said Professor Williams' appointment was an exciting development for Monash and Victoria.

"Professor Williams is one of the most outstanding scientists to be recruited to Australia in recent times," Professor Byrne said.

"This institute is already well positioned on the world stage in a number of areas, including reproductive biology. As well as providing outstanding leadership for the institute overall, Professor Williams will bring a new research strength in the field of cancer biology. Undoubtedly, under his direction MIMR will continue to go from strength to strength."

Professor Williams said he was honoured to accept the directorship.

"The institute already has an enviable world-ranking in research, and I will be privileged to work with the staff to take it forward to the next phase," he said.