In Memoriam: Associate Professor Mark Fear
10 July 2025
The Women and Infants Research Foundation is deeply saddened by the passing of Associate Professor Mark Fear.
Mark was a dedicated researcher whose work in burn injury, wound healing and fibrosis has transformed both science and patient care. WIRF was proud to support Mark’s work into advancing our understanding of women’s health, particularly in the area of how metabolic and immune changes contribute to the progression and symptoms of endometriosis. His contributions will have a lasting impact on improving outcomes for women in Australia and beyond.
Beyond his scientific achievements, Mark was a valued colleague and mentor, known for his generosity, curiosity, and commitment to translational research. His collaborative spirit and dedication to improving lives will be missed by all who had the privilege to work with him.
Our thoughts are with Mark’s family, friends, and the broader research community during this difficult time.
More information about Mark’s incredible career and contribution to research and care, can be found on The Fiona Wood Foundation website.
About Dr Mark Fear
Associate Professor Mark Fear completed his undergraduate studies in 1996, subsequently working at Northwestern University, Chicago, USA before completing his PhD at the University of London in 2003, working in non-melanoma skin cancers.
After completing his PhD, Professor Fear moved to The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia and has worked in the field of burns, skin, scarring, and fibrosis for the past 20 years.
His recent work focussed on the amelioration of scar formation, therapeutic amelioration of fibrosis and on skin regeneration after trauma, particularly in burn injury. Associate Professor Fear had an interest in the molecular and cellular biology of scar formation and fibrosis and in drug development targeting scar formation, fibrotic disease and maintenance to improve appearance and function.
Associate Professor Fear studied the cellular and molecular basis for a range of fibrotic conditions, including Dupuytren’s disease, endometriosis and keloids.
Learn more about Associate Professor Fear’s endometriosis research, being driven by Perth students Akaiti James and Sarah Walshin this ABC article Two students at the forefront of the battle to understand the ‘enigma’ of endometriosis and video Endometriosis Crusaders Finding a Cure.
