Bruce Neal

Professor Bruce Neal is a Conjoint Professor of Medicine at UNSW Sydney and Executive Director of The George Institute Australia. He completed his medical degree at the University of Bristol (UK) in 1990 and earned a PhD in epidemiology from the University of Auckland (New Zealand) in 2000. Dr. Neal has been pivotal in expanding The George Institute from its founding in 1999 to a global organization with over 700 staff. His research focuses on translating clinical and public health findings into policy, particularly addressing hypertension, diabetes, and chronic disease prevention through dietary interventions like salt substitution. He has pioneered the FoodSwitch app to promote healthier food choices and led large-scale trials such as the Salt Substitute and Stroke Study (SSaSS), demonstrating the cardiovascular benefits of potassium-enriched salt.

• Education:
  • MB ChB, University of Bristol (1990)
  • MRCP, Royal College of Physicians (1993)
  • PhD in Medicine, University of Auckland (2000)

Neal’s research emphasizes the environmental determinants of health, including food policy and pharmaceutical industry collaborations. He holds prestigious awards like the FAAHMS and FAHA, and leads major grants such as the NHMRC’s largest Program Grant. His work spans clinical trials (e.g., CANVAS/CREDENCE), public health campaigns, and global health initiatives targeting sodium reduction and ultra-processed foods. He has over 500 peer-reviewed publications and co-founded George Clinical, a successful research spin-off.

His articles highlight advancements in SGLT2 inhibitor therapies, salt substitution efficacy, and the interplay between diet, chronic disease, and climate change. Neal’s contributions bridge clinical practice, policy, and global health equity, with a focus on scalable interventions to reduce preventable disease burdens.