A leading haematologist and renowned immunologist have been honoured with this year’s David de Kretser Medal and Lifetime Achievement Award.
Recognising the long-standing contribution of the former Governor of Victoria to the Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, these annual awards acknowledge outstanding long-term contributions to the Faculty and medical science in general.
Professor Hatem Salem, Head of Clinical Haematology at Monash University and the Alfred Hospital, was announced by the Dean, Professor Christina Mitchell as the recipient of the 2011 David de Kretser Medal for his exceptional enduring contribution to the Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences.
Professor Salem’s clinical and laboratory research interest is in the field of thrombosis and haemostasis. In 2010, Professor Salem was awarded the Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for service to medicine in the field of haematology as a clinician, educator and researcher and also through the establishment of the Australian Centre for Blood Diseases.
“I’m very grateful and also humbled to be given this award,” Professor Salem said. “Success is best achieved through a team effort. I’ve been blessed to have good mentors and wonderful people to work with and everyone in our team should be recognised.”
The Lifetime Achievement Award, which celebrates an individual who has made an outstanding contribution both nationally and internationally to human health and wellbeing, was awarded to Sir Gus Nossal, with the citation being read by Professor Ross Coppel.
Sir Gus’ research accomplishments are world-renowned. As a researcher and Director of The Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research (WEHI) from 1965 to 1996 he helped build the foundations of modern immunology while improving global health through his long-term involvement with the World Health Organization.
Sir Gus Nossal was knighted in 1977, made a Companion of the Order of Australia in 1989 and appointed Australian of the Year 2000.
The ceremony held on 7 June at the Monash University Law Chambers was hosted by the Chair of the Monash University Medical Foundation, Rod Chadwick, under whose auspices these awards are made each year.
