Professor John Rostas

In recognition of Exceptional Service to HMRI, we acknowledge Professor John Rostas.

As inaugural Director of HMRI from 1 September 1999 to 14 August 2006, John maintained a clear and unequivocal vision for what HMRI was capable of achieving. John’s passion for HMRI and for health and medical research generally was paramount in raising the profile of HMRI in the community and government.

In February 2001, John’s discussion document ‘an integrated model for health and medical research’ led to the consolidation of research activity in the Hunter and strengthened the collaborative program based model of HMRI. John brought together previously unconnected research groups from across the area health service and university and forged strong, productive partnerships.

Through John’s continued lobbying, this model of collaboration known as the virtual research institute gained the attention of the NSW Government. Two trienniums of funding were secured in 2000 and 2003, but it was the announcement in June 2006 of a third triennium of funding that marked a significant milestone for HMRI.

For the first time, HMRI had achieved equity of treatment with the research institutes in Sydney, securing $6.6 million in infrastructure funding.

Although it took a back seat during his tenure as Director, John maintained his research interests and served as an advisor to many government and university committees. John has continued to advocate the HMRI model in his role as Deputy Head of Faculty (Research) for the Faculty of Health.

For the sacrifices in developing HMRI, his leadership in the local research community and the establishment of HMRI as a prominent member of the State and National research community, please join me in congratulating Professor John Rostas.