Achievements

Clinical Leadership and Academic Roles

Professor Fiona Wood AO is internationally recognised for her contributions as a burns specialist, clinician-scientist, researcher, and medical innovator. Her pioneering work in burn care, translational research, and cell-based therapies has received significant national and international recognition.

Her most prestigious honours include the King’s Medal (2026), appointment as an Officer of the Order of Australia (2024), induction into the WA Science Hall of Fame (2024), the Australian Society for Medical Research Medal (2022), and Australian of the Year (2005).

National Honours and Recognition

Professor Fiona Wood has received numerous national honours in recognition of her clinical excellence and research, which have improved quality-of-life outcomes for burn patients in Australia and worldwide.

2026

King’s Medal for pioneering research that led to the development of spray-on skin technology and transformed burn care for patients in Australia and internationally.

2024

Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) for distinguished service to plastic and reconstructive surgery, medical research, and as a clinician scientist and mentor.

2005

Australian of the Year (announced by Prime Minister John Howard).
Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering Clunies Ross Award for Medical Science (joint recipient with Marie Stoner).

2004

WA Citizen of the Year Award.
Dr Michael Chin Humanitarian Award.
Recognised as an Australian Living Treasure.

2003

Member of the Order of Australia (AM).
Australian Medical Association ‘Contribution to Medicine’ Award.

She was also voted Australia’s Most Trusted Person for six consecutive years (2005–2010) in a Reader’s Digest poll.

International and Professional Distinctions

Professor Wood’s contributions have also been recognised by professional and academic institutions in Australia and internationally.

2026

American Burn Association’s (ABA) Lifetime Achievement Award.

2024

Honorary Member, Rotary Club of Matilda Bay.
Inductee, WA Science Hall of Fame.

2023

Monash Medal.

2022

Australian Society for Medical Research Medallist.

2011

WA Women’s Hall of Fame.

2009

Fellowship, King’s College London.

2007

Honorary Life Membership, Australian and New Zealand Burn Association (ANZBA).
Honorary Degree of Doctor of Medicine, University of Leeds.

2006

Honorary Life Membership, Australian College of Educators.

The life and work of Professor Fiona Wood AO, National Living Treasure

By Sue Williams

In Under Her Skin, bestselling author and award-winning journalist Sue Williams presents an insightful account of Professor Fiona Wood’s life and career, examining the experiences, challenges and achievements that have defined her pioneering contributions to burns care, medical research and innovation.

Copies purchased through the Fiona Wood Foundation website are signed by Fiona, with proceeds from her book sales supporting the FWF research and education efforts.

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