Win-win for infectious diseases expert

A Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (RBWH) infectious diseases specialist has been acknowledged for his research contribution in tropical medicine and specifically malaria research, winning two prestigious international awards.

Professor James McCarthy is a Senior Physician in Infectious Diseases at RBWH

Professor James McCarthy is a Senior Physician in Infectious Diseases at RBWH and Senior Scientist in Clinical Tropical Medicine at QIMR Berghofer. He leads a team that has worked extensively to improve the diagnosis and treatment of a range of parasitic diseases, including malaria, intestinal parasites and scabies.

As a result of his extensive contributions to malaria research, specifically developing the human challenge system to test diagnostics, drugs and vaccines, Professor McCarthy has been awarded the prestigious Sornchai Looareesuwan medal for his significant achievements in malaria research.

His work has also earned him the title of Honorary International Fellow by The American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (ASTMH), making him one of five individuals recognised globally this year by ASTMH for their outstanding contributions to the field of tropical medicine.

Professor McCarthy said that he was very pleased to accept these honours on behalf of his whole research team.

“I have received amazing support from my colleagues at RBWH and across Queensland Health,” Professor McCarthy said.

“They have helped to champion my research and these awards are really a win for the whole research team.”