Jonathan Carapetis

Professor Jonathan Carapetis is a leading academic at the University of Western Australia (UWA), holding dual roles as Professor in the UWA Medical School and Director of the Telethon Kids Institute. As a consultant paediatrician at Perth Children’s Hospital, his work bridges clinical practice and research. His primary research focuses on rheumatic heart disease, streptococcal infections, and improving health outcomes for Indigenous Australian children. Key areas include vaccine development, antimicrobial therapies, and culturally responsive healthcare delivery.

Research Expertise: His work addresses UN Sustainable Development Goals related to good health and well-being (SDG 3). Current projects include optimizing rotavirus vaccines for Aboriginal children and developing long-acting penicillin formulations for rheumatic fever prevention. He leads national and international collaborations through grants from organizations like the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the NHMRC.

Recent Contributions: Recent publications emphasize vaccine trial safety frameworks, penicillin efficacy studies, and cross-cultural health initiatives. Notable work includes the CHIPS trial on streptococcal pharyngitis prevention and epidemiological studies on Group B streptococcal infections.

Professional Background: Previously held leadership roles as Theme Director at Murdoch Children’s Research Institute and Director of Menzies School of Health Research. Medical training at Royal Melbourne and Royal Children’s Hospitals underpins his clinical-research hybrid expertise.