Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation

The Ihorua Rangahau, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation holds responsibility for the University’s research policy, strategy, management and performance. They develop relationships with the University’s research funders and collaborators, promote and support innovation and enterprise at the University, oversee the operation of the Research and Innovation Office and chair the Board of UniServices Auckland Limited.

Frank became Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation in March 2023, after eight years as Director of the Liggins Institute, one of the University's large-scale research institutes.

A Professor of Neonatology since 2013, Frank has mentored medical staff and supervised doctoral students.

His extensive experience includes work as a clinical and academic neonatologist at Auckland City Hospital. His research focuses on fetal development and infant nutrition, improving health outcomes for mothers and newborn babies. Notably, Frank led ground-breaking research into the optimisation of protein intake and nutrition for premature babies.

In 2024, he was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to neonatology.

Beyond his academic roles, Frank has also held leadership roles in professional organisations and contributed to various health committees. He is the past President of the Perinatal Society of New Zealand and the Perinatal Society of New Zealand and Australia.

Read more about Frank on his University profile.

Email: dvcr@auckland.ac.nz