The best of health

HMRI is delivering world-class health initiatives to the local community, with Professor Frances Kay-Lambkin at the helm.

Compassion and curiosity are two qualities Professor Frances Kay-Lambkin has by the bucketload. As newly appointed Institute Director at the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI), she brings these plus her experience as a registered psychologist, mental health researcher and educator to the role. While her career has taken her around the world, she remains deeply committed to the Newcastle community she grew up in.

“HMRI’s approach is unique in that it works across all phases of discovery and implementation, from laboratory testing and controlled clinical trials, to the final stage where health services can be delivered to the community,” says Kay-Lambkin. “That last step is where the magic and the challenge happens. But that’s where the true benefits can be realised – it means we can get effective treatments out there and making a difference.”

The institute is funded by government grants and private donations, and has recently grown its scope to include 19 key research areas. Kay-Lambkin believes it’s thanks to the leadership of HMRI predecessor Professor Mike Calford that she can continue innovating. “You can’t get people to change and look up and out if they feel uncertain, so I’m genuinely standing on his shoulders,” she says.

Looking to the future, her focus will be on connection and community engagement, to meet the changing needs of the region. “I want the workforce at HMRI to know their value, and to feel supported to be able to realise that value.”