Drs Sean Carter and Erin Johnson have been appointed as WIRF’s deputy chief scientists, further strengthening the Foundation’s world-leading research to improve the health of women, babies, and families.
A John Monash Scholar and Maternal Fetal Medicine Fellow at King Edward Memorial Hospital, Dr Carter has worked closely with WIRF for over 15 years on major projects including the optimisation of antenatal steroid therapy in the management of preterm birth and the artificial placenta.
Dr Carter undertook his PhD at the National University of Singapore, exploring the molecular and pharmacological basis behind fetal lung maturation. His research is helping to refine antenatal steroid therapy and support improved clinical decision-making in obstetric care for women and babies at risk of preterm birth.
Dr Erin Johnson, a 2025 PhD graduate of The University of Western Australia and Postdoctoral Fellow at WIRF, leads the Foundation’s perinatal sheep research program.In this role, she brings together international collaborators to conduct translational research aimed at improving outcomes for babies born preterm. Through her PhD, Dr Johnson focused on optimising antenatal steroid therapy to maximise therapeutic benefit while minimising risk to both the mother and baby.
WIRF Chief Scientist Professor Matt Kemp said the appointments recognise the outstanding contributions of both researchers and WIRF’s commitment to supporting the next generation of clinician-scientists.
“Sean and Erin bring exceptional expertise, creativity, and dedication to our research program. Their leadership will help translate cutting-edge discoveries into clinical practice and transform care for women and newborns globally,” Professor Kemp said.
