Vale Dr Richard Kirsner

It is with great sadness that we advise of the passing of Dr Richard Kirsner, a long-time supporter of the Society.

A giant of the profession and a man of exceptional intellect who set and maintained the highest standards, Richard was also a kind and generous colleague who encouraged his peers and supported the professional development of many across the industry.

After graduating in electrical engineering from the University of Melbourne, Richard worked at the Aeronautical Research Laboratories for five years, where he developed a strong interest in biomedical engineering. He subsequently returned to the University to complete a Master of Science in physiology and a PhD, followed by a postdoctoral appointment at Imperial College London. He then resumed lecturing in the Department of Electrical Engineering at the University of Melbourne.

In 1977, Richard established the Department of Medical Engineering and Physics at St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne, and served as its Director for twenty years. He subsequently continued his contributions to teaching, research and postgraduate supervision through several universities and research organisations.Throughout his career, Richard was actively involved in professional biomedical engineering organisations both in Australia and internationally, through committee service and editorial roles with professional journals.

His outstanding contributions to the profession were recognised through a number of prestigious awards.Richard was deeply respected by colleagues and friends, and will be greatly missed. Those who knew Richard well may be pleased to know that his sense of humour never waned.

SMBEVIC Committee