-

Renowned leaders appointed to new WEHI advisory board 

19 September 2025

WEHI is bringing together leading experts and research pioneers to help shape the institute’s future, through the establishment of a new Independent Scientific Advisory Board (ISAB).

The advisory board will provide forward-looking guidance on WEHI’s scientific strategy and research focus, strengthening the institute’s position as a global leader in biomedical research.

The inaugural members of ISAB – Professor Sir Jim Smith FRS, Professor Donna Farber DFAAI, Professor Jan Löwe FRS, Mr Lim Chuan Poh​ and Professor Margaret Sheil​ AO – are internationally renowned leaders in medical research and allied sectors in the UK, US, Singapore and Australia.

WEHI director Professor Ken Smith said the advisory board members bring a wealth of experience and a shared commitment to driving scientific impact.

“We’re delighted to welcome this exceptional group of leaders to WEHI,” Prof Smith said.

“Their valuable insights will help inform our future direction, ensuring we remain responsive to emerging opportunities and challenges.

“We’re proud to have them as part of WEHI’s extended community, supporting our journey over the coming years and accelerating our mission to improve health through discovery.”

The ISAB, pictured with WEHI’s executive leadership team, will support the institute to deliver on its long-term scientific goals.

Inaugural chair Professor Sir Jim Smith said: “WEHI has a remarkable history of scientific excellence and innovation, and I’m honoured to be part of helping shape its next chapter.

“I’m excited to work with such a talented and visionary community to help steer WEHI’s future direction and guide the next phase of impact.”

The ISAB will support WEHI to deliver on its long-term scientific goals, identifying evolving opportunities and risks in the research landscape, advising on translation pathways to maximise research impact and strengthen connections with potential collaborators, funders and strategic partners.

The advisory board will meet annually, with the inaugural meeting convened at WEHI this week.

Find out more about the inaugural members of the Independent Scientific Advisory Board.

Header image: Renowned leaders and inaugural members of WEHI’s new Independent Scientific Advisory Board (left to right): Mr Lim Chuan Poh, Professor Jan Löwe, Professor Sir Jim Smith, Professor Donna Farber, Professor Margaret Sheil​.

Related topics
Media Enquiries
Support us

Together we can create a brighter future

Your support will help WEHI’s researchers make discoveries and find treatments to ensure healthier, longer lives for you and your loved ones.

Sign up to our quarterly newsletter Illuminate

Find out about recent discoveries, community supporters and more.

Illuminate Spring 2025
View the current issue