Dear Members,

ASMR Medical Research Week(R) (1-8 June) is one of the society's flagship events for the year. The week is fast approaching and we have assembled an outstanding National program which includes the ASMR Medallist Tour. The medallist this year is Professor Axel Ullrich, an inspirational scientist who for over 25 years has been a leader in gene-technology, translating basic science discoveries into medical applications. I encourage you to book tables and attend the ASMR MRW(R) dinners and functions to be held in Hobart, Brisbane, Adelaide, Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne and Perth.

There are a plethora of exciting events planned in the various states during ASMR Medical Research Week(R including, scientific meetings, public outreach, schools events, science in the cinema, and career development workshops. Full program details and booking information is available on the ASMR website: www.asmr.org.au

On a different note, the CEO of the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), Prof. Warwick Anderson is seeking to strengthen further the NHMRC Office through the appointment of researchers in a number of leadership roles. This is in line with the recommendations of the Wills Review and the Grant Review, to 'increase the employment of research-literate staff' at the NHMRC, to bring the staff profile in line with comparable international bodies.  Details about these positions can be found at http://www.nhmrc.gov.au/publications/synopses/nh80syn.htm.

I look forward to seeing you during ASMR Medical Research WeekÒ in celebrating and raising the public profile of Australian health and medical research achievements.

Kind regards,

Maria Kavallaris
ASMR President