Prof Kathryn North AC Appointed Chair of the Australian Medical Research Advisory Board
Professor Kathryn North AC, the Director of Murdoch Children’s Research Institute (MCRI) since 2013, has been named the new Chair of the Australian Medical Research Advisory Board (AMRAB). The appointment, announced by Federal Health Minister Mark Butler, positions North at the helm of the body that sets priorities for the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF), a cornerstone of Australia’s health research strategy with around $650 million disbursed annually across a broad spectrum of medical fields.
What AMRAB Does and Why this Matters
AMRAB plays a pivotal role in translating scientific discovery into real-world health outcomes. By shaping MRFF priorities, AMRAB helps ensure that Australian health and medical research aligns with national health priorities and has the greatest potential to improve patient care, public health, and health system resilience. The MRFF itself provides critical funding for researchers, clinicians, and institutions tackling some of the country’s most pressing medical challenges.
Professor North’s Background: A Leader in Genomics and Child Health
North’s leadership at MCRI—an institution renowned for pediatric health and translational research—puts her at the forefront of innovation. Trained as a physician, neurologist, and clinical geneticist, she brings a rare blend of clinical insight and research excellence. Her work spans genetics, neurology, and child health, with a strong emphasis on translating discoveries into timely and personalised treatments for children.
Genomics, Personalised Medicine, and National Collaboration
As the inaugural Chair of Genomics Australia, North has helped accelerate the use of genomic technologies to identify rare conditions in children and to tailor therapies to individual patients. Her leadership extends to the international stage as Co-Chair of the Global Alliance for Genomics and Health and through past service as President of the Australian Association of Medical Research Institutes (AAMRI). These roles underscore a career dedicated to aligning cutting-edge science with practical health outcomes.
Acknowledgement and National Impact
In 2019, North was awarded a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) for her service to genomic medicine and medical research. The accolade reflects her influence across genetics, neurology, and child health, and signals the national confidence in her ability to steer research policy and funding priorities that benefit Australian patients and families.
Strategic Vision for AMRAB under North
North has articulated a clear vision for her AMRAB role: to bridge the gap between laboratory breakthroughs and real-world health improvements. She emphasises the importance of aligning MRFF investments with broader national health priorities and strengthening the capacity of Australia’s health research ecosystem to deliver timely, scalable solutions. With an increasing alignment between MRFF and the National Health and Medical Research Council, North sees a “golden opportunity” to accelerate the translation of discoveries into effective treatments and interventions.
What This Means for Researchers, Clinicians, and Patients
For researchers, the appointment signals a steady and strategic path for MRFF-funded projects, encouraging high-impact studies that address urgent health needs. Clinicians stand to benefit from more rapid access to novel diagnostics and therapies arising from funded research. Patients—especially children facing rare and complex conditions—may see faster development of personalised medical approaches informed by genomics and other advanced technologies.
Looking Ahead
Professor North’s leadership is expected to strengthen collaboration across government, academia, and the health sector. Her work with Genomics Australia and international genomics initiatives complements AMRAB’s mandate to prioritise funding that translates science into tangible health gains. As AMRAB advances under her chairmanship, Australia’s health research community will be watching closely to see how strategic investments unfold into better health outcomes for all Australians.
