Posted: 4 December 2024
Before her death from cancer in August his year, Dr Depaz was Country Medical Lead and Head of Medical Vaccines for Sanofi Australia & New Zealand, as well as Managing Director of the Translational Science Hub, Sanofi Global Vaccines R&D.
The LSQ Hall of Fame honours individuals whose contributions have profoundly shaped Queensland’s life sciences sector, inspiring innovation, collaboration, and excellence.
LSQ Chair Professor Trent Munro praised Dr Depaz’s vision and dedication, describing her as a trailblazer whose influence extended far beyond Queensland.
“Iris’s impact on our sector was extraordinary. She was a visionary leader who championed Queensland as a global biotechnology hub,”Professor Munro said.
“Her leadership in establishing Sanofi’s Translational Science Hub has not only advanced vaccine development but also placedQueensland at the forefront of global biomedical research. Iris’s legacy is one of innovation, collaboration, and empowerment.”
Professor Munro also highlighted Dr Depaz’s passion for mentoring emerging female scientists and breaking new ground in science and technology.
“Iris was an innovator, a mentor, and a friend to many in our community. Her dedication to fostering the next generation of female leaders and advancing scientific innovation will inspire us for years to come,”he said.
The announcement was made at LSQ’s networking breakfast and 2023–23 Annual General Meeting this morning, with Dr Depaz’s husband, Dr Chris Booth, accepting the award on her behalf.
Dr Depaz joins an esteemed group of previous Hall of Fame inductees: Emeritus Professor Maree Smith (2015), former LSQ CEO Mario Pennisi (2018), and Professor Ian Frazer (2021).
Life Sciences Queensland is the peak industry body for advancing Queensland’s life sciences sector, supporting health, biotech, and medtech innovation. The organisation connects key stakeholders across industry, government, and academia, fostering collaboration to strengthen Queensland’s role as a leader in the life sciences industry both nationally and globally.
