The Sir Gustav Nossal Professor of Immunology celebrates the enduring legacy of Sir Gus, whose pioneering work in immune tolerance and leadership as WEHI director (1965-1996) transformed the institute into a global powerhouse of biomedical research.

Building on Sir Gus’ extraordinary global legacy of discovery and advocacy, Prof Mackay will shape a bold research agenda, accelerating transformative discoveries in immunology and nurturing the next generation of outstanding scientists.

WEHI director Professor Ken Smith said the institute was proud to welcome Prof Mackay as the first Nossal Professor.

“Laura is an exceptional scientist whose work has shaped modern immunology. Her appointment reflects WEHI’s commitment to carrying forward Sir Gus’ legacy and investing in the leaders who will drive the future of the field,” Prof Smith said.

“We extend our sincere thanks to the Nossal family, whose generosity in establishing this ongoing role will continue to benefit communities for generations.”

Prof Mackay said she was honoured to step into a role that advances Sir Gus’ enduring vision for immunology.

“Sir Gus’ work has profoundly shaped the field and I am proud to help take forward his remarkable legacy as a scientist and leader,” she said.

“Like Sir Gus, I strongly believe in scientific excellence – but equally in the importance of mentoring and supporting our emerging scientists, and engaging the broader community in our mission.

“I am deeply grateful to the Nossal family for making this opportunity possible and for their unwavering commitment to the future of immunology research.”

Sir Gustav Nossal said he was pleased and honoured that an immunologist of Prof Mackay’s standing has accepted the role.

“I was delighted to meet Prof Mackay and very impressed by her research in tissue-resident T cells. She has an ideal set of skills for the inaugural Nossal Professor of Immunology and an approach to research which is congruent with the Nossal objectives,” he said.

“It is a pleasure to welcome Prof Mackay to the role and we look forward to the decades of innovative and adventurous research that she will no doubt lead.”

Prof Mackay is a globally recognised expert in immunological memory, whose innovative work has advanced our understanding of tissue immunity and the role of T cells in protecting against infection and cancer.

Currently a Laboratory Head and Immunology Theme Leader at the Doherty Institute, her research has defined how tissue-resident memory T cells are generated and maintained in tissues, how they protect against disease, and how they can be harnessed in new vaccines and treatments.

Significantly, her work has revealed that these cells are critical for cancer control and are linked to improved survival in patients with solid tumours.

She has been recognised through major honours including the Prime Minister’s Prize for Frank Fenner Life Scientist of the Year, the LEO Foundation Award (Asia-Pacific), the NHMRC Elizabeth Blackburn Investigator award and election as the youngest-ever Fellow of the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences.

Prof Mackay will maintain a fractional appointment at the Doherty Institute alongside her new role at WEHI, strengthening collaboration across the Melbourne Biomedical Precinct.

She will commence in the role of Sir Gustav Nossal Professor of Immunology in April 2026.

Launched through the philanthropic generosity of the Nossal family, the professorship relies on ongoing support to realise its full scientific ambition.