Professor Merlin Thomas is an internationally renowned clinician scientist in diabetic kidney disease, where he is recognised as one of the top experts globally. His translational research spans basic biochemistry and biology to epidemiology and clinical trials. He is also a sought-after speaker, teacher and best-selling author. He has an exceptional track record of productivity, publishing in journals including the Journal of Clinical Investigation, Circulation Research and Diabetes. His discovery work has led to patent applications that he has translated into early-phase commercial development.

Professor Thomas has received the Eric Susman Award from the RACP, TJ Neal Award from the Australian and New Zealand Society of Nephrology and the Millennium Award from Diabetes Australia.