ABI academics celebrated at Vice-Chancellor's Recognition Dinner

Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland acknowledged the achievements of its staff at the annual Vice-Chancellor’s Recognition Dinner, held on Thursday 17 July at the Fale Pasifika.

Hosted by Vice-Chancellor Professor Dawn Freshwater, the dinner recognises academic and professional staff who have demonstrated exceptional performance in their roles across teaching, research, service and leadership.

“In recognising the achievements of academic and professional staff, we are reminded of our impact on New Zealand and the communities that support us. This is what we do,” Freshwater said.

Distinguished Professor Sir Peter Hunter was appointed a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to medical science in 2024.

Sir Peter is one of New Zealand’s most highly awarded and visionary scientist/engineers.

"He is recognised internationally for his world-leading contributions to bioengineering and physiology," said the citation presented at the dinner. "This includes his pioneering work on computational modelling of the heart and other organ systems, the highly ambitious ‘Physiome Project’ that seeks to document all levels of physiology in one collective, and his leadership in translating deep science to health and economic outcomes for New Zealand."

Dr Tim Angeli-Gordon was the recipient of the Royal Society Te Apārangi Cooper Award in 2024. His primary research involved investigating electrical and cellular mechanisms causing and treating abnormalities of gastrointestinal electrophysiology and motility.

"In 2024, he was also awarded a project grant from the Health Research Council to translate minimally invasive ablation technique as a next- generation treatment option for patients with gastrointestinal dysfunctions," the citation said.

Full details here of all the University of Auckland staff members recognised at the dinner, and photos from the event.