Message from the Head of School
Dear colleagues,
It has been a busy month stepping into my new role as Interim Head of School during what is an exciting time of change for the Melbourne Medical School, and I feel honoured to serve the School in this role. As the leadership team begin work to maintain our position as one of the leading medical schools in the country, I would like to thank Professor John Prins for his four years of leadership and distinctive service to our School.
As we move towards the festive season and celebrate our achievements over the past year, it is important to highlight that Victoria has seen an increase in COVID-19 cases over recent weeks as new variants emerge and spread. The University’s COVID-19 information hub includes some great information and resources to assist staff to navigate this challenging period, and provides guidance on how to keep yourself and your colleagues, students, family and friends safe.
I was delighted to attend the MMS Research Symposium last month at University College, where staff and students were able to learn about the latest research developments by emerging leaders from across the school. It was our first face-to-face symposium since the pandemic began and it was wonderful to gather in-person. It was an engaging program which celebrated achievements from what has been another impressive year for our research staff and students. This year we introduced a new award which highlights the crucial role that honorary staff play in the development of our graduate research candidates. I extend my congratulations to Dr Alison Compton and Professor Jeanie Cheong, who won the Award for Outstanding Graduate Research Supervision by Honorary Staff in the Emerging Leader and Leader categories respectively.
(L-R) Dr Alison Compton, Department of Paediatrics and Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Professor Nicola Lautenschlager, Head of the Melbourne Medical School, and Professor Jeanie Cheong Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and MCRI
I would also like to extend my congratulations to those who received academic promotions, grant funding, fellowships and awards throughout the year. It is fantastic to see our staff and students being recognised for their excellence both within the University and beyond.
As another busy year draws to a close, please make sure that you give yourself time over the break to relax and recharge by looking after your physical and mental health. Staff well-being is our priority and if you are interested in taking extended leave during this period, it is a great time to talk to your supervisor about your plans, in addition to lodging your request through Themis. This will ensure both you and your supervisor can develop a shared plan to cover any duties as required while you are on leave, and you can embrace 2023 feeling refreshed and reenergised.
I’m looking forward to working on many exciting new initiatives for the School over the coming year and collaborating with the Faculty in support of the new MDHS Advancing Health 2030 strategic plan.
Lastly, I’d like to thank you for your hard work over the past 12 months. I wish you a relaxing break spending time with family and friends and hope we all return rested and reinvigorated for 2023.
Best wishes,