Background and research interests : With formal training in biochemistry, cell and molecular biology and management, David has over 25 years’ experience in the biomedical and life sciences. His early research interests were focussed in the field of molecular approaches to parasite vaccine development, in particular malaria vaccine development. He held postdoctoral positions at the Rockefeller University, New York, and CSIRO, Sydney and has an MSc and PhD from the Australian National University and a Graduate Certificate of Management (Technology Management) from Deakin University. He is also a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. David was the inaugural CEO of the Diabetes Vaccine Development Centre (DVDC) and held executive management positions with Biotech Australia Pty Limited, Sydney and its successor companies.