Academy’s Mentorship program for Advancing Research Leaders welcomes 14 new Mentees

The Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences (AAHMS) is proud to announce 14 new participants joining our Mentorship Program for Advancing Research Leaders.

The highly competitive program supports exceptional emerging researchers at a pivotal stage in their careers. The 14 successful applicants were chosen by a selection committee for their achievements, leadership potential and capacity to make a significant contribution to their field.

Over the next three years, each mentee will work closely with an Academy Fellow who will provide guidance and support as they navigate the next stage of their career. The mentoring relationship provides mentees with the opportunity to draw on the experience of some of Australia’s leading health and medical researchers, while developing their own leadership skills and networks.

Chair of the selection committee and AAHMS Fellow, Professor Gail Risbridger AM FAHMS, welcomed the strong interest in this year’s program, noting that the high number of applications reflects its growing recognition and value across the research sector.

“The Program pairs outstanding mid-career researchers with Academy Fellows, giving them high-quality mentorship and access to experienced role models at a formative stage in their careers,” said Professor Risbridger. “Our approach to mentorship is very tailored. We ask each applicant to identify the areas in which they would most value guidance and match them with an AAHMS Fellow whose expertise and experience align with their individual needs and career aspirations.”

Since the program was established in 2015, more than 140 researchers have taken part as mentees, with many alumni going on to win awards, gain promotion or take up leadership roles, including as mentors themselves.

The program includes an annual workshop where mentees explore skills in areas such as engaging with policymakers and research leadership skills.

Applications for the 2027 Mentorship Program for Advancing Research Leaders open later this year and applicants can register their interest now by emailing [email protected].

The program is one of two mentoring initiatives the Academy runs to build Australia’s national capability in health and medical research – alongside our Inclusive Leadership Mentoring Program. 

Meet the Academy’s newest mentees below:

Associate Professor Katie Ayers, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute

Professor Lauren Ayton, The University of Melbourne

Professor Chris Brennan-Jones, The Kids Research Institute Australia

Associate Professor Lee-anne Chapple, Adelaide University

Professor David Gonzalez-Chica, Adelaide University

Associate Professor Brendan McMullan, UNSW Sydney

Professor Hannah Moore, The Kids Research Institute Australia

Associate Professor Stephanie Partridge, The University of Sydney

Associate Professor Jonathan Penm, The University of Sydney

Associate Professor Valerie Sung, Murdoch Children’s Research Institute

Professor Kirsty Short, The University of Queensland

Associate Professor Mihiri Silva, The University of Melbourne

Professor Jun Yang, Hudson Institute of Medical Research

Associate Professor Katrina Witt, The University of Melbourne

Academy media contact: Khaled Chakli | [email protected] | 0423 099 568