A globally recognised leader in maternal and child health is set to take the helm at The Kids Research Institute.
Professor Caroline Homer AO will step into the role of executive director at the Institute, replacing Professor Jonathon Carapetis who announced he would step down from the role late last year.
Professor Homer hails from an international career than spans clinical care, academic research and policy. Currently at the Burnet Institute in Melbourne, Professor Homer will head for WA’s largest medical research institute in July this year.
She is a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences and has served as Chair of the National Health and Medical Research Council since 2021.
Professor Homer will be the second woman and third executive director to lead The Kids.
“I’m excited to join The Kids, with its impressive track record, delivering outcomes for kids and families, and strong reputation,” she said.
“I look forward to partnering with the executive and broader team, to continue to deliver health and wellbeing outcomes for children and families.”
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Professor Homer added that she looks forward to helping implement The Kids strategic plan, which identifies reducing vulnerability on school entry, reducing infectious disease risk in vulnerable children, and improving the quality of life for children with long-term conditions among areas where it will focus its research.
Board Chair of The Kids Naomi Flutter said Professor Homer brings significant leadership capabilities and experience, supporting the translation of research into real world impact.
“Caroline joins The Kids, having led significant research programs focused on improving health outcomes for women, children and families,” she said.
“Her work in academic and Institute settings and with global health bodies, including the World Health Organization, has directly influenced policy and practice, in Australia and internationally.”
Professor Carapetis is stepping down from The Kids in July after 14 years.
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