New leadership at WA's Perron Institute

The Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, formerly the Western Australian Neuroscience Research Institute (WANRI), has welcomed Emeritus Professor Alan Robson AO CitWA as its new board chair. Professor Robson commenced his new role at the institute’s AGM and board meeting on 26 May.

Professor Robson is an advocate of a collaborative approach to research for the greater good. His board experience includes his current role as Chair of the WA Museum Board of Trustees and previous roles as Chair of the Group of Eight, Deputy Chair of the Council of the National Library and Universities Australia, and a member of the Western Australian Science Council and the CSIRO board. He served as Deputy Vice-Chancellor and then Vice-Chancellor at The University of Western Australia for 17 years, leading the university through a period of performance that was at an all-time high.

Perron Institute CEO Steve Arnott said Professor Robson’s appointment, combined with the recent name change acknowledging the longstanding support of the philanthropic Perron family, represents a new era and exciting future for the institute.

“The Perron Institute is delighted with the appointment of Professor Alan Robson as our new board chair,” he said. “Professor Robson brings a great deal of experience both as a leader and chair and provides significant research and advisory experience, a strong interface with industry and a commitment to innovation.

“We have an ambitious vision for the future, one in which we play a greater role in translating neuroscience research into positive outcomes of benefit to the Western Australian community and beyond.

“The Perron Institute is going through a period of significant development and Professor Robson’s appointment will be integral to achieving the outcomes that we have set for ourselves.”

Pictured: Professor Alan Robson.