MEDIA RELEASE 30 October 2013 Human molecular geneticist recognised with NHMRC Outstanding Contribution Award A national leader in the field of human molecular genetics has been awarded the National Health and Medical Research Council’s 2012 Outstanding Contribution Award. NHMRC established the Outstanding Contribution Award to acknowledge long-term contribution, individual commitment and support to NHMRC, and health and medical research. This year NHMRC has recognised University of Sydney Professor Ron Trent for his extensive involvement in NHMRC peer review since the mid-1980s. Professor Trent has also served NHMRC as: Chair of Human Genetics Advisory Committee 2006 -2012 Chair of Gene and related Therapies Research Advisory Panel 1994-2006 Member of Council 2006 -2012 Member of Research Committee 1997-2009 Member of Research Translation Faculty 2012-current. “NHMRC’s Outstanding Contribution Award recognises a researcher who is prepared to tackle the tough health issues facing Australia,” NHMRC CEO Professor Warwick Anderson said. NHMRC also recognises Professor Trent for his pioneering work including the development of DNA testing facilities for clinical care and the education of postgraduate scholars in laboratory genetics. Professor Trent has authored over two hundred publications on these topics. “Not only does Professor Trent provide a state-wide DNA diagnostic service for NSW, but his research has greatly increased our understanding of the intricate interactions that occur between genes and the environment in the development of complex diseases.” Currently, Professor Trent is a Director at Sydney’s Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Executive Director of the University’s and Hospitals SUPAMAC (a high throughput DNA analysis service), and member of the Board of the Garvan Institute of Medical Research. Professor Trent is also a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians, a Fellow of the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia and a Fellow of the Human Genetics Society of Australasia. Media Contact NHMRC Media Team: 0422 008 512