Professor Cathy Vaughan appointed new Director of Nossal Institute for Global Health

Following a comprehensive international search, Professor Cathy Vaughan has been appointed as the new Director of the Nossal Institute for Global Health and Managing Director of Nossal Institute Limited, a subsidiary company of the University of Melbourne.

Professor Vaughan will take over from Professor Barbara McPake, who recently stepped down as Director but will continue to contribute to the Nossal Institute’s impact and global reputation.

Professor Vaughan is a public health researcher with expertise in gender, violence prevention and health systems. She has worked in extensively in Asia, the Pacific and sub-Saharan Africa and is committed to participatory approaches to health research and to research capacity building.

Professor Jane Gunn, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences said: "I welcome Professor Vaughan to this important Faculty leadership role as Director of the Nossal Institute. Cathy brings an outstanding track record in global health and a demonstrated commitment to leadership that embraces our faculty values. I am excited about the contributions she will lead to improving health outcomes locally, in the Asia Pacifica and globally.”

Professor Jim McCluskey, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) and Chair of the Nossal Institute Limited board has also welcomed Professor Vaughan’s appointment.

"Professor Vaughan is an exceptional leader and a highly respected global health researcher. Her appointment as the new Director of the Nossal Institute will strengthen our efforts to advance the global health agenda through innovative and evidence-based interventions." Professor McCluskey said.

Professor Nancy Baxter, Head of the Melbourne School of Population and Global Health said: "We are delighted to welcome Professor Vaughan to the Nossal Institute for Global Health. Her extensive leadership, experience, and commitment to global health will undoubtedly drive the Nossal Institute forward in its mission to improve health outcomes globally."

Professor Vaughan, currently Head of the Gender and Women's Health Unit, Co-Director of the Centre for Health Equity and Director of the WHO Collaborating Centre for Women's Health, said she was excited to join the Nossal Institute.

“The Nossal Institute has a fantastic reputation in the global health community, with excellent staff and students.  I am very much looking forward to joining a team so committed to advancing global health." Professor Vaughan said.

The Nossal Institute is grateful to outgoing director Professor McPake, for the significant contributions she has made during her tenure.

Professor Vaughan will commence as Director in  April 2023.