After 14 years at the helm of The Kids Research Institute Australia Professor Jonathon Carapetis is set to depart.
Professor Carapetis, who has overseen major advancements in child health research, including discoveries that have influenced policy and practice such as the recent adoption of RSV vaccinations, has announced he will step down in July 2026.
The infectious diseases consultant physician at Perth Children’s Hospital, and professor at UWA, took on the role of executive director of what was then Telethon Kids Institute in 2012.
Professor Carapetis has led the institute through key milestones including the transition to new headquarters at Perth Children’s Hospital, the development of a bold strategic plan, and the creation of the organisation’s new brand.
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Prof Carapetis thanked everyone he has worked with during his tenure, adding that all organisations benefits from new leadership from time to time.
“It was very important to me that I choose to leave at the right time – with The Kids well positioned for the future. That time is now,” he said.
“We have a fabulous strategic plan underway that I genuinely believe will redefine how we do medical research in this country, by focusing on how we can bring the greatest benefit to those we serve – kids and families.
“We have a distinctive new brand that allows us to reach new audiences and we are in a strong financial position. This is a great time for a new leader to step in and help take The Kids from strength to strength.”
The Kids Chair Naomi Flutter said under his leadership the organisation has strengthened its position as a national leader in child health research.
“Reflecting on this tenure, our Institute has evolved – in our science, partnerships, and ways of working, with many significant achievements including discoveries, translated into practice and clinical care and an unwavering commitment to First Nations health equity,” she said.
Professor Carapetis has been involved in international efforts to reduce rheumatic heart disease and group A streptococcal infections.
“The Board is thrilled to know that from July next year, this change will give Professor Carapetis the opportunity to focus fully on Strep A and Rheumatic Heart Disease, which is one of Australia’s most urgent but addressable health dis-equities,” Ms Flutter said.
Ms Flutter said The Kids had a strong leadership team in place and was well positioned for its next era following Professor Carapetis’s departure.
An international recruitment process will be undertaken to find his successor successor.
Professor Carapetis will continue to lead the Institute until July 2026, ensuring a smooth and orderly transition.
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