Emeritus Professor Ainslie Glenister Ross Sheil AO is a distinguished medical researcher and practitioner known for his landmark contributions to organ transplantation.
He began his medical studies at UQ and excelled both academically and athletically, representing St John’s College and UQ in numerous sports. Awarded a Rhodes Scholarship in 1956, he studied surgery at Oxford and conducted pioneering research in organ transplantation before training at Harvard with Nobel laureate Dr Joseph E Murray.
Professor Sheil led the first liver transplant in Australia at age 34 and directed the Australian National Liver Transplantation Unit (ANLTU) from 1986 to 2001, achieving significant advancements in transplantation techniques and patient outcomes. He was a foundation member of the Australian Kidney Foundation and Inaugural President of The Transplantation Society of Australia and New Zealand.
Professor Sheil has published over 400 research papers and provided mentorship to emerging researchers through the supervision of numerous postgraduate students. His contributions have earned him a range of accolades, including as Officer of the Order of Australia.
Professor Sheil is an Honorary Fellow of St John’s College, recognised for his exceptional academic and professional achievements. Since first joining St John’s as a student in 1951, he has remained a highly regarded member of the community, embodying the Johnian values of excellence and integrity.
Do you have a favourite quote, motto or piece of advice?
“Keep your eye on the ball.”
