Finding community at JCSMR: A journey from self-doubt to scientific excellence
As the John Curtin School of Medical Research (JCSMR) celebrates its 75th anniversary, we’re reconnecting with distinguished alumni to reflect on their experiences and the impact JCSMR has had on their careers. Today, we feature Professor Simon Hogan, the Askwith Research Professor of Food Allergy and Professor of Pathology at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA.
Professor Hogan began his journey at JCSMR as an undergraduate in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at ANU. Uncertain of his direction in science, he found encouragement from his friend, Dr Philip Hansbro, then a postdoctoral fellow. “Fabulous Phil advised me to join the Denborough-Foster Lab, describing a challenging but fun environment that resonated with me,” Hogan recalls. Inspired, he pursued the honours component of his Bachelor of Science degree at ANU in 1992, mentored by Professor Michael Denborough and Dr Paul Foster. His initial research focused on inositol phosphate metabolism in malignant hyperthermia, a rare muscle disorder, and proved transformative. “My biggest hurdle was overcoming imposter syndrome,” he admits. “But JCSMR’s Department of Biochemistry was a place where curiosity and passion were nurtured. I quickly realised I had found my community.”
After his Honors year, Dr Hogan was determined to continue at JCSMR for his PhD, delving into cytokines’ role in allergic inflammation under Professor Foster’s guidance. Despite initial challenges in securing a spot, faculty members Dr Karen Ovington, Dr Carol Beam, and Dr Foster’s persistence helped him gain admission. “Their belief in my abilities gave me the opportunity I needed,” he says with gratitude.
Hogan’s hard work culminated in a PhD in Medical Sciences in 1998, earning him the prestigious Frank Fenner Award for the most outstanding PhD thesis of his year. His career launched with the NHMRC CJ Martin Fellowship, with mentors like Professors Paul Foster, Ian Young, and Klaus Matthaei providing unwavering support.
His time at JCSMR is also rich with memories of camaraderie and collaboration. Late nights with fellow graduate student Nicole Taske in Dr Foster’s lab, set to the soundtrack of Cold Chisel, Super Jesus, and INXS, created bonds that made the challenging work enjoyable. Evenings at the university’s beer garden, sharing laughs with faculty, students, and postdocs, were another highlight. “You never wanted to be the first whose timer went off,” he laughs, remembering the friendly lab culture.
Today, Professor Hogan leads an NIH-funded lab at the University of Michigan, exploring interactions in the immune system related to food allergies, eosinophilic esophagitis, and inflammatory bowel disease. He also co-directs the Molecular Cellular Pathology graduate program, mentoring 30 PhD students across diverse research areas.
Reflecting on JCSMR’s influence, Hogan shares, “JCSMR has been incredibly influential throughout my career. I’m proud to be an alumnus and serve as an ambassador for the institution.” For current and future generations at JCSMR, his advice is simple: “Immerse yourself in your science. Progress may not happen as quickly as you’d like, but it’s a long race. And try your best not to listen to all the noise.”
As JCSMR marks this milestone anniversary, Professor Hogan’s journey from self-doubt to scientific excellence is a testament to the supportive and nurturing environment that the school has fostered for 75 years.