John E. J. Rasko BSc (Med), MBBS (Hons), PhD, MAICD, FFSc(RCPA), FRCPA, FRACP, FAHMS

Professor John Rasko AO is a clinical hematologist, pathologist, and scientist with a productive track record in gene and stem cell therapy, experimental hematology, and molecular biology. In over 150 publications he has contributed to the understanding of stem cells and hemopoiesis, gene transfer technologies, oncogenesis, human aminoacidurias, and non-coding RNAs. 

He serves on Hospital, state, and national bodies including the Chair of GTTAC, Office of the Gene Technology Regulator – responsible for regulating all genetically modified organisms in Australia – and Chair of the Advisory Committee on Biologicals, Therapeutic Goods Administration. Contributions to scientific organizations include co-founding (2000) and president (2003-5) of the Australasian Gene Therapy Society; Vice President, of the International Society for Cellular Therapy (2008-12) and founder (2009) ISCT-Australia; Scientific Advisory Committees and Board member for philanthropic foundations; and several Ethics Committees. He is the recipient of national (RCPA, RACP, ASBMB) and international awards in recognition of his commitment to excellence in medical research, including appointment as an Officer of the Order of Australia.