7 September 2020

Austin Health Endocrinologist, Professor Ego Seeman AM, has been awarded the International Osteoporosis Foundation’s prestigious President’s Award for his contribution to combating the disease.

Prof Seeman said the award was recognition for a commitment to the field of osteoporosis over many years.

“I’ve spent my life working in one area and have enjoyed every minute of my career,” Prof Seeman said.

“There are lots of people walking around who deserve recognition so when I received a letter from the International Osteoporosis Foundation I was a little bit surprised.

“Many people have helped me along the way. You always meet others who are so much better than you are and I was lucky these people gave me the courage and confidence to try things and question the status quo.

“I am particularly indebted to Professor George Jerums whose grace and knowledge is an inspiration to the many Endocrinologists in Australia who worked under his supervision. 

“I don’t think I’m a special person but I have the love of something comes from working hard at it.

“In the words of English playwright, Noel Coward, “work is much more fun than fun,” he said.

Prof Seeman encouraged the next generation of scientists and healthcare experts to continuing pushing the boundaries.

“It’s so important that we foster a culture of scientific rigor, that people challenge and question, and are not afraid to disagree,” he said.

“Science keeps evolving and nobody has the truth cornered.

“Knowledgeable people giving each other hell creates an electric atmosphere and helps to move us forward. Leadership and courage are among the most important talents people can have and Austin Health has a great tradition of mentoring.

“I am privileged to have worked at the Austin where people like the great Professors Austin Doyle, TJ Martin, and Richard Larkins taught us all the skills of scepticism, enquiry, careful use of the spoken and written word, and taught us how to think – a tradition that continues with the leadership of the Endocrine unit and Department of Medicine by Jeff Zajac today. 

“The best mentors I’ve had have been good enough to share their knowledge with me and then step back which I’m very grateful for,” he said.

Professor Seeman was previously appointed a Member of the Order of Australia in 2016 for his ground-breaking contributions to research into osteoporosis and endocrinology.