PROFESSOR Teatulohi (Lohi) Matainaho, a leading researcher in traditional medicine and drug discovery, has been officially elected the inaugural President of the newly launched Pacific Academy of Sciences.
Announced by Samoan Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mata'afa, the Academy aims to foster scientific collaboration in the Pacific Islands, integrating natural and social sciences, indigenous knowledge, and technology.
Prof Matainaho (pictured), currently Vice Chancellor at the Pacific Adventist University, was selected from 12 Foundation Fellows, all notable Pacific scholars.
His work spans malaria, cancer, HIV, tuberculosis, and Papua New Guinea's biodiversity, alongside contributions to science policy.
Global science leaders welcomed his appointment including Australian Academy of Science President, Professor Chennupati Jagadish, who said, "he is not only a globally respected researcher, he is passionate about the powerful role science, traditional knowledge and empowering young scientists have to play in making the lives of Pacific Islands communities and, indeed, the world, a better place".
Reflecting on his appointment, Matainaho expressed commitment to building a vibrant institution.
"The Academy will connect Pacific scholars and support young people's career development," he said, emphasising a goal of tackling global challenges through science.
Born a twin in Papua New Guinea at a time when twins were taboo, Matainaho and his brother narrowly escaped death through their grandfather's protection.
Defying cultural customs around twin births, both survived and went on to earn PhDs - Matainaho in pharmacology and his twin in engineering. JG
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