Medical research chair named for Kerry Stokes

Curtin University has named a key health research post for Seven Network chair Kerry Stokes.

A new chair in children’s medical research at Curtin University has been named for media magnate Kerry Stokes.

In today’s Higher Ed Daily Brief: children’s medical research, new business deans chief

Kerry Stokes honoured with chair

Curtin University has named a key health research post for Seven Network chair Kerry Stokes in recognition of his support over many years for children’s medical research. The Kerry M Stokes chair of child health will be a university appointment, but the appointee will carry out research at the Telethon Kids Institute.

Since 1968 Channel Seven’s Perth Telethon has raised over $300 million for medical research. Curtin University vice-chancellor Deborah Terry said Mr Stokes had been and inspirational leader in supporting the wellbeing of children.

A worldwide search will be carried out to find the right appointee for the role, who will be expected to run a research program to deliver “paradigm shifting research” in broad areas including chronic and severe disease, infectious diseases, mental health, neurodevelopmental health, rare diseases, disabilities and preventative healthcare.

David Grant to lead business deans

The Australian Business Deans Council (ABDC) has appointed David Grant, the pro vice-chancellor (business) at Griffith University, as its next president. Professor Grant said he would step up the group’s lobbying activities, stressing the importance of business schools in Australia’s higher education system and the role they play in international education.

“ABDC members educate one-third of our domestic university students and graduate

more than half of the international tertiary students in Australia,” he said.

“International students in our business schools account for more than $5 billion in

education export earnings — a significant portion of Australia’s third largest export

industry.”