New Dean for Dunedin School of Medicine

A distinguished researcher who has dedicated his career to improving the health and wellbeing of children in New Zealand and around the world has been appointed to the position of Dean at the Dunedin School of Medicine.

University of Otago Professor Barry Taylor will take up the role in January 2014. He aims to reinforce the relationship between the University and the Southern District Health Board, building on the strengths that the retiring Dean, Dr John Adams, brought to the role.

“Neither organisation by itself will be able to maintain a world class health system – working together, I think we can,” says Professor Taylor.

“I am pleased that there is some confidence that I can do it. It is quite a daunting task, especially in today’s environment when the practice and delivery of high quality health care is under so much pressure.”

Until late last year, Professor Taylor was the Head of the Department of Women’s and Children’s Health – a position he had held since 2003. He holds a distinguished record in teaching and research in paediatrics, and has become widely known for his leading-edge research into children’s health, most notably into Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), childhood obesity and childhood disease.

He and his collaborators have been awarded many millions in research funding since the late 1980s, with some 162 publications where Professor Taylor is listed as either author or co-author.

In announcing his appointment today, Health Sciences Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Peter Crampton says that Professor Taylor is a highly accomplished and widely respected researcher and professional leader.

“We are very fortunate to have someone of his calibre taking up the role of Dean of the Dunedin School of Medicine. He will bring energy and passion to the task of leading the School's research, teaching and service activities and will further build on the School's fine reputation,

“I look forward to working with Professor Taylor in his new role.”

Professor Taylor also plans to prioritise the development and support of the School’s research capabilities, through recruiting and retaining some of Otago’s best graduates, and through collaborative efforts within and outside the University.

“Good research brings best practice into both the hospital and community for prevention and treatment of poor health.

“This must happen across all of Otago and Southland. The strengths of the whole University come into this as research almost always requires bringing people with different strengths and abilities to work together on each problem.”

Dr Adams leaves after ten highly productive years in the role.

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