Ross McKinnon is a Matthew Flinders Distinguished Professor at Flinders University. With 40 years of experience in pharmacy, cancer research, and cell biology, he is a recognized leader and innovator in his field. He is a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences and the International Pharmaceutical Federation, and has received several honors, including the APSA Medal.He has made significant contributions to research, policy, infrastructure, and education, both nationally and internationally. He was the Foundation Director of the Flinders Health and Medical Research Institute and the Dean (Research) in the College of Medicine and Public Health. He also led several other research centers and institutes, such as the Flinders Centre for Innovation in Cancer, the Sansom Institute, and the Centre for Pharmaceutical Research. He is a past Chair of the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) Board of Pharmaceutical Sciences and also served two terms as a FIP Vice-President. He has been instrumental in developing and supporting national therapeutic development pathways and organizing and chairing global conferences and events. He is passionate about advancing the pharmaceutical sciences and improving health outcomes for patients and communities.