UWA Fogarty Scholars in Conversation at the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research 

The second installment of the 2024 In Conversation series, titled "Innovation in Conversation: In the Lab," took place last night at the prestigious Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research. This event, part of the Leadership and Enterprise Program for UWA Fogarty Scholars, gave attendees insights into the role of innovation in scientific discovery and leadership in medical research. 

The In Conversation series, a key component of the Scholars' Leadership and Innovation Program, is designed to broaden UWA Fogarty Scholars' perspectives by providing them with direct access to the experiences and wisdom of West Australian leaders across various industries. The September event focused on the theme of "Innovation in the Lab" and offered an in-depth exploration of the importance of innovation in scientific research. 

The highlight of the evening was the keynote address delivered by Professor Peter Leedman AO, Director of the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research. Professor Leedman, a distinguished endocrinologist and renowned researcher in cancer medicine, shared his professional journey and the challenges he faced in the field of medical research. He emphasised the critical role of innovation in driving scientific discoveries and advancing medical knowledge. 

Drawing from his extensive experience, including his time at Harvard Medical School, Professor Leedman offered valuable insights into the pioneering work being conducted at the Harry Perkins Institute. His address underscored the importance of perseverance, curiosity, and collaborative efforts in the ever-evolving field of medical research. He also focused on the importance of family networks and stressed that while shaping your career you are also shaping your life. 

Following the keynote address, the event featured a conversation session where UWA Fogarty Scholars and attendees engaged directly with Professor Leedman. The interactive discussion allowed participants to delve deeper into topics such as the future of medical research, the ethical considerations in scientific discovery, and the role of leadership in fostering a culture of innovation. 

The evening concluded with a networking session, where attendees had the chance to connect with Professor Leedman, fellow Scholars and Alumni. This provided a platform for exchanging ideas, building relationships, and fostering collaborations that may contribute to future advancements in the field. 

Learn more about work being done at the Harry Perkins Institute!