The Respiratory Research Group at the Menzies Research Institute and University's Tasmanian School of Medicine has made its mark on the international research scene in the past week, collecting two prestigious research awards.

The Respiratory Research Group at the Menzies Research Institute and University's Tasmanian School of Medicine has made its mark on the international research scene in the past week, collecting two prestigious research awards.

Professor Haydn Walters was recognised as one of the Thoracic Society's most eminent researchers in the field of respiratory medicine when he was presented with the Research Medal of the Australia New Zealand Thoracic Society in Auckland last Monday at the Society's annual scientific meeting.

The Research Medal is awarded in recognition of outstanding contributions to the advancement of knowledge in respiratory medicine or science carried out primarily in Australia or New Zealand.

Professor Walters says that he was humbled to receive the award, which recognizes an individual who has demonstrated sustained excellence in their field of research.

"I am fortunate to be working with a dedicated team of scientists in this field in Tasmania and it is inspiring to be recognised by my peers in this way," Professor Walters said.

Also last week, Dr Julia Walters was awarded a highly competitive fellowship from the Australian Lung Foundation to study a new model of care for people in the community living with chronic lung disease.

The Australian Lung Foundation/Boehringer Ingelheim Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Research Fellowship will provide support for Dr Walters' research to evaluate a model of care that aims to improve quality of life for patients while reducing health care costs.

The model encourages patients with chronic lung disease to adopt healthier lifestyles, and promotes self-management and earlier intervention for acute periods of illness. Dr Walters will also evaluate the use of an innovative information technology system designed to assist patients to self-manage their condition.

Dr Walters spent many years in General Practice before starting her research career and undertaking a PhD over the last four years at the University of Tasmania.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major health issue in Australia today. An estimated half a million Australians are affected resulting in health system costs in Australia of over $300 million per annum.

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