Leading immunologist to head national research council

Health Minister Sussan Ley said Professor Kelso would take up her new position with the NHMRC in April.

"Professor Kelso's distinguished career in medical research and her track record in internationally competitive research in immunology and influenza make her an ideal choice to head up the NMHRC," Ley said.

"Professor Kelso's experience and expertise will be a great asset to Australia's leading expert body for health and medical research and help Australia build on its reputation as a world leader in medical innovation."

Professor Kelso obtained a Bachelor of Science (Honours) and PhD from the University of Melbourne and has developed significant global health experience and networks through her work with the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Professor Kelso, through her previous role as Director of the WHO Collaborating Centre on Influenza, worked on surveillance and vaccine policy relating to pandemic viruses and provided technical advice to ministers of health throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

She was also the Director of the Co-operative Research Centre for Vaccine Technology from 2000 to 2006.

Professor Kelso will succeed Professor Warwick Anderson AO as the NHMRC's Chief Executive Officer.