Canberra Monday 1 June 1998

New Director for Research School of Biological Sciences

One of the world's leading experts on reproductive physiology took up the post of Director of Research School of Biological Sciences (RSBS) today.

He is Professor John Hearn, formerly Professor of Physiology, Medical School, University of Wisconsin.

Professor Hearn, a Consultant Scientist to the World Health Organisation's Program in Family and Reproductive Health, has also been Director, Mellon Centre for Reproductive Biology.

He succeeds Professor Barry Osmond as RSBS Director.

The Research School of Biological Sciences, part of ANU's Institute of Advanced Studies, is a leading international research and postgraduate training institution.

Professor Hearn has been a professor in ANU's Faculty of Science since November last year. He also has a McMaster Fellowship at the CSIRO's Division of Wildlife and Ecology to undertake joint research with that organisation.

Professor Hearn, whose research includes studies on embryo implantation, reproductive success, and natural regulation of fertility in mammals, was educated in England and Kenya and University College Dublin (MSc, BSc, Hons.). In 1972 he was awarded the degree of Doctor of Philosophy by ANU for his research on reproductive physiology.

He has won major scientific prizes and awards and has held distinguished academic posts in the United States, England, Scotland, Kenya, and Australia. Professor Hearn is a member of major scientific societies, has published broadly and contributed to the editorial committees of several research journals. He has been involved in the work of a large number of research councils and government organisations in many countries.

Professor Hearn, a conservationist, runner and former Rugby Union player (he represented Kenya and played for North Canberra), is married and has five children.

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No 40/98