Prof Kate Leslie awarded ASA Award for Excellence in Research

Professor Kate Leslie AO FAHMS is the recipient of the 2025 American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Award for Excellence in Research.

This prestigious award recognises lifetime achievement in research in anaesthesiology and perioperative medicine. Professor Leslie will receive the award during a ceremony at the ASA Annual Meeting in San Antonio, Texas, in October 2025.

Professor Leslie is one of the pioneers of international multicentre trial research in anaesthesia and perioperative medicine. During a research career spanning more than 35 years, she has pursued interests including monitoring anaesthetic depth and awareness; preventing adverse postoperative outcomes; and improving diversity, equity and inclusion for research participants and researchers. Professor Leslie has published more than 280 papers, been awarded over A$33M in research funding, and delivered more than 230 invited lectures. She is an editor of the British Journal of Anaesthesia and Miller’s Anesthesia textbook.

Professor Leslie has also served by leading medical organisations dedicated to advancing science and education. She is a former president of the Australian and New Zealand College of Anaesthetists (ANZCA), Council of Presidents of Medical Colleges, and Australian Medical Council, and former chair of the ANZCA Clinical Trials Network. Professor Leslie is passionate about fostering the next generation of research leaders and advocating for women in research and leadership.

Professor Leslie deeply appreciates her collaborations with colleagues at the Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Monash University, ANZCA Clinical Trials Network and international research groups over the last 35 years.

We congratulate Professor Leslie on this prestigious award.