World-renowned plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Professor Fiona Wood AO, has been announced as the Depaz Orator for the AusBiotech International Conference, held as part of Australia’s Biggest Week in Biotech on the Gold Coast in October 2026.
Professor Wood is a former AusBiotech board member, current Orthocell board member, and Co-Founder of the Fiona Wood Foundation, a research organisation dedicated to improving burns care.
Together with Marie Stoner, Professor Wood co-invented the revolutionary ‘spray-on skin’ cell technique, ReCell, to help reduce permanent scarring in people with severe burns. She was named Australian of the Year in 2005 for her pioneering work.
The Depaz Oration recognises a visionary leader in commercialisation who has successfully translated scientific innovation into market-ready healthcare solutions.
Dr Iris Depaz was a leader who was dedicated to driving innovation and strategic growth to support the advancement of Australia’s life science industry. With a strong track record in commercialisation, Dr Depaz was committed to advancing healthcare solutions and improving patient outcomes for Australians and globally.
The Oration is held in partnership with Sanofi.
Last year, the inaugural Depaz Orator was Adjunct Professor Alison Todd AM, FTSE, PhD, Co-Founder and Chief Scientific Officer, SpeeDx.
AusBiotech said it looks forward to welcoming Professor Wood and the broader life sciences community to the Gold Coast in October.
Australia’s Biggest Week in Biotech is the nation’s premier life sciences gathering, uniting the AusBiotech International Conference, AusMedtech Conference, and AusBiotech Invest.
Held annually, the week attracts thousands of delegates from across biotechnology, medical technology, digital health, investment, research, and government, creating opportunities for collaboration, partnering, investment, and knowledge-sharing.
The program is now live for the 2026 AusBiotech International Conference and AusMedtech Conference, taking place on the Gold Coast as part of Australia’s Biggest Week in Biotech. Built around the theme Global Impact Together, the integrated three-day program features more than 250 speakers across approximately 60 sessions, connecting every stage of the innovation journey.
