Dianella Researcher Honoured by International University

May 20th, 2008 - Media Statement

A senior researcher at the Western Australian Institute for Medical Research's Centre for Diabetes Research has been honoured by a prestigious Chinese university.

Dianella resident Dr Fang-Xu Jiang - whose work focuses on finding a cure for type 1 diabetes - has been appointed as a Guest Professor in the Department of Endocrinology, First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University.

Founded in Shanghai 1896 and relocated to Xi'an, Xi'an Jiaotong University is recognised as one of the top universities in China.

Centre for Diabetes Research Director Grant Morahan congratulated Dr Jiang on his appointment.

"Dr Jiang is a remarkable scientist and this new appointment is proof his skills and talents in diabetes research have attracted international recognition," Professor Morahan said.

"We're thrilled to have someone of his calibre in our ranks."

Dr Jiang said he was delighted with the appointment and was looking forward to working with eminent researchers from China.

"As part of my role as Guest Professor, I will be able to host students and researchers from Xi'an Jiaotong University on exchange programs to WAIMR," he said.

"The expertise and information gained from collaborating with Chinese researchers and students will no doubt help WA scientists gain a deeper understanding and insight into diabetes and hopefully take us one step closer to finding a cure."

Dr Fang-Xu Jiang has more than 20 years experience in medical research both in Australia and overseas and is committed to finding a cure for type 1 diabetes - a disease that has doubled in incidence in the last 20 years in Australia.

The Western Australian Institute for Medical Research celebrates 10 years of groundbreaking discoveries in 2008.

For more information please contact:
Natalie Papadopoulos
Media Consultant for the WA Institute for Medical Research
Mobile: 0407 984 435
Office: (08) 9388 9280