CSL has paid tribute to Professor John Shine after the company's chair was made a Companion in the General Division (AC) in the Queen's birthday honours list.
Professor Shine was recognised for "eminent service to medical research, particularly in the area of biopharmaceuticals and molecular biology, to higher education as an academic, to professional medical organisations, and as a supporter of the advancement of innovation in science."
"CSL congratulates Professor John Shine on being awarded the Companion of the Order of Australia for his service to medical research. John’s work has made an important contribution to the field of molecular biology and our understanding of gene expression," said a spokesperson for the company.
"The AC is well deserved recognition of the value of John’s work to the millions of patients who have benefited from his research. More broadly, the award acknowledges the significant contribution of Australian science to the field of medical research."
A leading health policy maker, Adriana Platona, was also recognised with a Public Service Medal.
Ms Platona, who is the current head of the TGA's medical devices and product quality division, received the award for her role negotiating the reimbursement of the new generation cures for hepatitis C. She was previously assistant secretary of the Department of Health's pharmaceutical evaluation area.
According to the citation, "Medicines for Hepatitis C are extremely costly and Ms Platona negotiated with international pharmaceutical companies to set an agreed price the Australian Government would pay for the drugs that was best value for the Government and the Australian public.
"The success of the PBS listing relied on her intellectual rigour and highly skilful navigation of a range of complex issues around the listing. She applied her expertise, experience and understanding of the pharmaceutical industry to these negotiations to ensure maximum value to the Australian Government and patients. Ms Platona pushed ahead with protracted negotiations in an uncompromising fashion with tact and diplomacy."