October 18, 2012  Print

Professor David Harris will today be awarded Kidney Health Australia’s prestigious Priscilla Kincaid-Smith Medal for his outstanding contribution to research in the field of kidney disease.

Her Excellency, The Governor-General Ms Quentin Bryce AC CVO will bestow Professor Harris with the award at the Westmead Hospital this afternoon.

David Harris is Professor of Medicine, The University of Sydney and Associate Dean and Head of Sydney Medical School, Westmead Hospital. He is Director of the Renal Failure Laboratory in the Centre for Transplantation and Renal Research, Westmead Millennium Institute.

Professor Harris has made major clinical contributions in the prevention and management of chronic kidney disease, as well as in the management of patients with end-stage kidney disease by dialysis.

His laboratory interests are focused on determining the mechanisms of damage in the kidney that lead to kidney failure. Professor Harris’ group is also investigating novel therapies, including DNA vaccination and modification of immune mechanisms that may lead to a slowing of progressive kidney disease.

Professor Harris has played a leading role in international education initiatives in kidney disease in the developing world and is the President-Elect of the Asian-Pacific Society of Nephrology.

Ms Anne Wilson, Chief Executive Officer of Kidney Health Australia said: “Professor Harris has already made a distinguished contribution to Australian and world nephrology with his exceptional research and education initiatives. He is a most worthy recipient of our highest award. 

“Kidney disease is a significant health issue both globally and in this country. Kidney Health Australia commends Professor Harris for his critical research in this field as we try to improve the lives of those living with the chronic condition. 

“Chronic kidney disease affects almost 10 per cent of Australian adults and the number coming onto dialysis programs has tripled in the last 20 years.

“In light of these striking figures, Kidney Health Australia continues to work tirelessly to raise the profile of kidney disease researchers in Australia with this prestigious honour - that is being awarded for a sixth time in our organisation’s history.”