Royal Society honours Professor Graham Le Gros for leadership in science

Director of the Malaghan Institute of Medical Research for more than 30 years, Prof Le Gros is one of nine new companions recognised by the society for outstanding leadership or eminent contributions to promoting and advancing science, technology or the humanities in New Zealand.

Malaghan Institute Trustee Sir Ashley Bloomfield was also elected for his sustained and significant contribution to public health in New Zealand. 

During his time with the Malaghan, Prof Le Gros has transformed the independent charity into a world-class centre for immunology, clinical trials and biomedical innovation. He led pioneering research into allergic and parasitic disease, showing how viral, bacterial and parasitic infections can inhibit or exacerbate chronic inflammatory conditions such as asthma.

Prof Le Gros was pivotal in establishing New Zealand’s first clinical trials of CAR T-cell therapy and in advancing immunotherapies that bring new hope to people with previously untreatable diseases. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he co-founded Vaccine Alliance Aotearoa New Zealand – Ohu Kaupare Huaketo, uniting science, industry, government and philanthropy to build domestic vaccine and RNA capability.

Elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in 2005 for distinction in research and advancing science, Prof Le Gros is widely recognised for his collaborative leadership, generosity and commitment to translational research that serves communities. He has helped shape a new generation of scientific leaders while securing lasting partnerships and investment for New Zealand.

Professor Kjesten Wiig, current Director of the Malaghan Institute, says the honour is richly deserved, “Through his leadership of the Malaghan, Graham has far outperformed any reasonable expectations and built a strong legacy for future generations. His election as a Companion of the Royal Society Te Apārangi is a fitting recognition of his extraordinary contribution to science and to New Zealand.”