03 July 2010 AusBiotech today announced a new Board line up, which is set to lead the industry organisation in its advocacy and support continued efforts to grow and sustain the biotechnology industry.
Chair of the Board, Dr Deborah Rathjen, said: “I’m pleased to announce the appointment to the AusBiotech Board, effective immediately, of outstanding industry-supporter Dr Peter Isdale. It is with great appreciation for his contribution that I also announce the retirement from the Board of Deputy Chair and long-serving board member, Dr Simon Carroll.
Dr Isdale is the Chief Executive Officer of IMBcom Pty Ltd – a leader in commercialising biotechnology, which draws on the research base of one of the largest biotechnology research institutes in Australia - The University of Queensland’s Institute for Molecular Bioscience (IMB). He has had 20 years of directorship experience on boards of private, public and ASX-listed companies in Australia, Asia and the Pacific Rim. Dr Isdale was awarded as a Member of the General Division of the Order of Australia in 2006 for service to marine science through research and as a contributor to the development and commercialisation of biotechnology.
In accepting the appointment, Dr Isdale said: “I welcome the opportunity to contribute to the progress of the industry through the governance system of a very effective advocate for its membership. We are in exciting and prospective times where the life sciences-based industries are providing responses to global challenges.”
Dr Rathjen said: “The Board welcomes Dr Isdale with a firm belief that his extensive experience in the biotechnology sector will complement the skills and expertise of the current Board and strengthen the Board’s capacity to deliver positive outcomes for the members of AusBiotech.”
In bidding farewell to Dr Carroll, who has served since the Board since 2000, when it was the Australian Biotechnology Association and later became AusBiotech, and has now announced his retirement, Dr Rathjen said: “Simon is a passionate supporter of AusBiotech and the biotechnology sector. To his great credit during his tenure as Chair and Deputy Chair the organisation was successfully transformed into a sustainable, recognised champion and advocate of the sector and a strong voice for member’s interests.”
