Professor Brendan Crabb

 

It is with great excitement and enthusiasm that I join the team at the Burnet Institute as Director and Chief Executive Officer. I have watched the extraordinary development of the Institute in its growth from a small centre of expertise into Australia and the region’s leading medical research and public health Institute with a major emphasis on infectious diseases of global significance. There is a deep common purpose amongst the Institute’s 350 staff to contribute to improving the health of disadvantaged and marginalised communities, both here and overseas. This culture, which combines with a commitment to excellence and international competitiveness in our areas of activity, defines the Institute and was a major attraction for me to take up the position.

Burnet’s work is no longer only in the area of infectious diseases research. The merger of the Austin Research Institute with Burnet in 2006 has broadened the scope of the Institute, especially in the areas of immunology and cancer research, and enabled additional growth in the infectious diseases research program. Our public health programs have also grown considerably, as has our reputation in the Asia and Pacific regions and Africa. We currently have 11 offices in seven countries and many public health programs operating across other countries in these regions.

With growth in size has come growth in reputation, and the Institute is recognised around the world for its ground-breaking research and its innovative approach to public health, especially in relation to HIV.

I am also delighted to report that building has commenced on Stage Two of The Alfred Centre. This major capital project will more than double the size of the Institute’s laboratories and public health space, and will provide for the future expansion of the Institute. It also will enable staff currently housed at the Austin campus to relocate to the AMREP site. The building program will take around 24 months to complete and I know all staff are looking forward to working together on one campus.

This is a very exciting time for the Institute and I am delighted to be a part of this exceptional organisation. I look forward to leading a very talented group of scientists, public health professionals and support staff into the next phase of the Institute’s development.

Professor Brendan Crabb
Director and CEO

 

Biography of Brendan S. Crabb, PhD

 

IMPACT Newsletter - Director's Column