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60 seconds with … Shane Thomas

10 September 2008

Name: Shane Thomas
Org Unit: School of Primary Health Care
Title: Professor and Director of Primary Care Research
Dept: General Practice

How long have you been with Monash University?

Two years now, it seems much shorter.

Prior to working at Monash, where were you located and what was your role?

I was Professor and Director of Research and Innovation in the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Sydney.

What challenges are ahead in your current role?

Energising and encouraging staff and students to do high quality research requires perseverance, a sense of humour and resources.

What is it about your job that holds your interest or is particularly satisfying?

Helping people become world competitive in their research.

What is your favourite place in the world and why?

Beijing, because it is so dynamic and different from my previous experience. Drive along the boulevards and you could think you are in a very large European city. Turn left or right into the side streets and you are obviously in China maybe some centuries ago. It is unique.

What is the best piece of advice you have received?

Early ripe, early rotten.

What is something about yourself that most of your colleagues wouldn't know?

I study Samurai sword or iaido which came about from watching a group of frenzied older guys in the Okinawa Budokan a few years back. I thought "that looks like fun" so I decided to do it too. It is the perfect blend of fitness of mind, body, spirit (and psychopathy!).