A leading Australian infectious disease expert has been honoured for research that has fundamentally reshaped the global approach to treating a severe and often deadly blood infection.
Landmark work recognised with top research award
Professor Joshua Davis, a clinician-researcher from the Hunter region, received the prestigious Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI) Award for Research Excellence for 2025. The award was presented at a ceremony at Newcastle City Hall on Friday, December 6, 2025.
Professor Davis's pioneering work has transformed the evidence base for managing severe infections, particularly staphylococcus aureus bloodstream infections. Through the design and leadership of critical clinical trials, his research has directly improved treatment protocols and outcomes for millions of patients worldwide facing this life-threatening condition.
A career dedicated to clinical trials and mentorship
The globally recognised expert has an impressive track record of scientific leadership. He has led more than 15 randomised clinical trials, authored or co-authored over 240 publications, and secured more than $51 million in competitive research funding.
Beyond his specific work on bloodstream infections, Professor Davis also co-led Australia's major COVID-19 treatment trials during the pandemic. He is further acknowledged as a dedicated mentor and a respected clinical leader within the medical research community.
Professor Davis is affiliated with the Hunter New England Local Health District, the University of Newcastle, and leads HMRI's Infection Research Program.
Celebrating excellence across the Hunter research community
The HMRI Research Excellence Awards for 2025 brought together researchers, clinicians, and supporters to celebrate contributions that transform health outcomes in the Hunter and New England regions.
Frances Kay, HMRI Director and Chief Executive, praised the award winners and finalists. "Our researchers and clinicians continue to push the boundaries of knowledge to address some of the most significant health challenges of our time," she said. "These awards give us an opportunity to recognise that work and to acknowledge the dedication that drives every study, every innovation and every breakthrough."
Professor Kay highlighted the importance of the strong partnerships between HMRI, the University of Newcastle, Hunter New England Local Health District, and the community.
Other notable award winners at the ceremony included:
- Associate Professor Myles Young (HMRI's Active Living and Learning Research Program), who received the HMRI Director's Award for Mid-Career Research.
- Dr Emily Cox (University of Newcastle and HMRI's Active Living and Learning Research Program), honoured with the HMRI Award for Early Career Research.
- Dr Nikitas Koussis (University of Newcastle and HMRI's Brain Neuromodulation Research Program), awarded the Newcastle Permanent Emerging Innovator Award.
- The Cancer Signalling Research Group (University of Newcastle and HMRI's Precision Medicine Research Program), which received the award for Research Team Excellence.
The collective work recognised at the event underscores the Hunter region's vital role in advancing medical science and delivering tangible health benefits both locally and across the globe.
