Distinguished neurologist Professor Graeme Hankey has been appointed as the inaugural Perron Institute Chair in Stroke Research at The University of Western Australia. 

As a clinician-scientist, Professor Hankey has made an outstanding lifetime contribution to stroke research, with a special interest in epidemiological studies and clinical trials of interventions for the treatment and prevention of stroke.

Internationally recognised for his achievements, he has led several pivotal studies in collaboration with leading researchers worldwide.

The creation of the Chair in Stroke Research was made possible through a financial commitment of $3 million by UWA, matched by the Perron Institute with the generous support of WA philanthropists.  It is a vital step towards establishing the Perron Institute Stroke Centre of Excellence. 

Image: Neurologist Professor Graeme Hankey.

Perron Institute Chair Mr Rob McKenzie said the new Chair and proposed Centre of Excellence provide a tremendous opportunity to drive stroke care and research well into the next generation with enormous benefits. 

“This brings together the huge talents of Professor Hankey, the Perron Institute’s Medical Director, Clinical Professor David Blacker and the Institute’s Head of Stoke Research, Clinical Professor Neville Knuckey, supported by other highly respected clinicians and researchers,” Mr McKenzie said.

A key focus is developing new therapies and leading clinical trials that evaluate the effectiveness of these therapies in preventing and treating stroke, one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide.

“Significantly adding to the group’s strength and its opportunities for success will be an unprecedented level of collaboration with The University of Western Australia, including access to a broader range of expertise covering mathematics, computer science and artificial intelligence,” Mr McKenzie said.

Professor Hankey said he is proud to be joining the Perron Institute, the leading Institute in Western Australia for research into neurological disorders.

“It is where outstanding research into stroke is being undertaken by a team of laboratory scientists and clinicians,” he said.  “I hope to inspire and help early and mid-career professionals to join the team and undertake research in strokes. 

“New opportunities will enable access to relevant infrastructure and expertise to generate new ideas and knowledge that can be translated into improved health outcomes for the diverse range of patients, carers and populations affected by stroke.

“One aim is to build on the outstanding stroke research now undertaken at the Perron Institute in collaboration with existing clinical and stroke research groups and forming new research streams.

“Another important aim is to extend our local, regional, rural, national and international collaborations and engage new partners in the quest to reduce the impact and burden of stroke.” 

UWA Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) Anna Nowak congratulated Professor Hankey on the appointment and said his expertise would further strengthen UWA’s partnership with the Perron Institute.

“Professor Hankey is an outstanding and internationally acclaimed researcher. The expertise he brings to the role, and his collaborative work in stroke research, will continue to facilitate our excellence in medical research,” she said.

“The development of new therapies and clinical trials for the prevention and treatment of stroke has the potential to benefit millions of patients around the world.”