John Piispanen

John Piispanen is an Adjunct Associate Professor at the University of Queensland and serves as Executive Director of the Health Protection and Regulation Branch within Queensland Health's Public Health and Scientific Services Division. With over 39 years of experience in public health, he initially trained in Brisbane and held leadership roles in North Queensland as Director of Environmental Health and later as Director of the Metro North Public Health Unit.

Education:

• Master of Public Health (James Cook University) - Recipient of the Sidney Sax Medal

His research and professional work focuses on environmental health, disaster response coordination, and international public health deployments through organizations like the Australian Medical Assistance Team (AUSMAT). He has contributed to humanitarian missions in Timor Leste, Philippines, India, Armenia, Papua New Guinea, and West Africa's Ebola response.

Scientific Awards:

• Sidney Sax Medal for outstanding academic achievement

John maintains active collaborations with Queensland Health, AUSMAT, and the University of Queensland, combining academic research with practical implementation of health protection protocols.